Sidney Crosby’s Return to the Olympics
MILAN — Sidney Crosby’s debut at the Olympics in 2010 left a lasting impression on the world of hockey.
His unforgettable golden goal, scored in overtime at just 22 years old, clinched victory over the United States and marked a memorable moment for Canadian hockey. This moment resonates not just with his Canadian teammates, but with hockey players from various nations.
Now, with some gray in his hair—a sign of the years that have passed—Crosby is gearing up for his third, and possibly last, Olympic Games in Milan.
“I was preparing [for 2010]. I did my best, while trying to keep an open mind,” Crosby shared from a private locker room in Pittsburgh. “I had never experienced anything like that before. It was incredible to play with the players I admired growing up. I aimed to absorb everything, but I also embraced my role. Just being part of it was a joy,” he recalled.
He straightforwardly added, “Winning was all I wanted.”
For Crosby, gold medals have been the consistent outcome of his Olympic journey. The last Winter Olympics featuring NHL players was in 2014 at Sochi, where Canada triumphed over Sweden.
The Vancouver Games hold a special place in his heart, especially since they took place in his homeland. Crosby vividly remembers watching Canada triumph over the U.S. in 2002 at the Salt Lake City Games, and how it impacted his adolescent self. This connection is evident every time he dons the Maple Leaf or steps into his home country.
Canada shares this sentiment. Mike Sullivan, former Penguins head coach and current Team USA coach, has observed the fervor in Canadian NHL cities whenever Crosby and the Penguins come to town for over a decade. He describes the throngs of fans lined up to catch a glimpse of No. 87.
They often had to pause the bus for fans, yet Crosby never hesitated to provide autographs for kids.
“He’s a massive influence on the upcoming generation,” Sullivan mentioned before heading to Milan. “Look at players like Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon. And Macklin Celebrini—his approach to the game and work ethic is remarkable. I’ve never seen anyone with Sid’s commitment in any sport. He deeply cares about his game and his team. That devotion was palpable during my time with the Penguins, and it will certainly be the same with Team Canada.”
Crosby’s presence in hockey is undeniably strong and has been for quite some time.
Wearing a red Canadian jersey adorned with black maple leaves, the 38-year-old—now the most experienced NHL player in the tournament—stood out among a roster that includes McDavid, MacKinnon, Cale Makar, and Celebrini.
It’s not just his skills that draw attention, but also the nostalgia he evokes.
Canadian head coach John Cooper aptly described Crosby as having an “aura,” a term kids might use these days.
Amid his 21st NHL season, Crosby remains competitive, ranking among the top 25 scorers with 27 goals and 32 assists throughout 56 games for the Penguins. Last February at the 4 Nations tournament, he notched five points—one goal and four assists—tying for second in the competition.
This performance is why Crosby has the honor of wearing Canada’s “C” insignia for the fourth consecutive year in this elite tournament.
Reflecting on his long journey, Canada assistant coach Pete DeBoer remarked, “Two decades ago, I was part of the Team Canada World Junior staff, and he was the youngest player then. Time has flown. In every environment I’ve seen him in—from the World Juniors to the Olympics—he continues to astonish me. His restlessness, his leadership, his message. He embodies professionalism and leadership.”
After practice alongside Mitch Marner and Mark Stone, Crosby expressed his eagerness to move forward. He’ll get that chance when the puck drops against the Czech Republic on Thursday at 4:40 p.m. (10:40 a.m. ET) in Milan.
The excitement around Canada—players, management, and the entire nation—grows. It’s not simply about watching a potential Hall of Famer, but witnessing one of the greatest players in hockey history. The Olympics have greatly missed his presence.
“Given the time away, my expectations are probably a bit higher,” Crosby said, considering the anticipation for the Olympics. “But many players are new to this, and their excitement is palpable. It’s fun to see that energy. Regarding the Four Nations, it was a pivotal moment for hockey, and I hope we maintain that momentum into the Olympics.”
