After playing a key role in Team USA‘s Olympic gold medal win, Connor Hellebuyck will now receive a prestigious honor. President Donald Trump announced that Hellebuyck will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Team USA defeated Canada 2-1 in overtime to win the gold medal in men’s hockey at the 2026 Olympics. The team was celebrated upon their return to the United States, with media appearances and social gatherings.
Team USA visited the White House earlier today and spent time with President Trump in the Oval Office. Trump later invited the team to attend his State of the Union address, where he introduced them to a loud ovation.
The Medal of Freedom is the United States government’s highest civilian honor and the sitting President awards it. The medal recognizes the significant achievements across a variety of fields, including the arts and public service.
President Donald Trump to Award Team USA’s Connor Hellebuyck Medal of Freedom
During his State of the Union address, President Donald Trump announced that Connor Hellebuyck will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Trump noted that few athletes have received it, which highlights its significance.
Trump said that Hellebuyck’s Team USA’s teammates supported the decision. He praised the Winnipeg Jets goaltender had a spectacular performance against Canada.
Hellebuyck made 41 saves on 42 shots and recorded an assist on Jack Hughes‘ game-winning goal in overtime. Trump said the performance will now be immortalized in American history.
“Think of it, [42] shots on goal. And I asked [Hellebuyck], ‘The one shot, the one where you put your stick at the back and it hit the neck of your stick and bounced off. You practiced that or was that a little luck?’ He refused to answer that question,” Trump said.
He added that decision to award Hellebuyck the Medal of Freedom received resounding support.
“I will soon be presenting Connor with our highest civilian honor, which will be given and which has been given to many athletes over the years,” Trump said. “When I say many, not too many, like 12, it’s called the highest civilian honor in our country, the Presidential Medal of Freedom.”
Hellebuyck Hopes to Inspire Young Hockey Players
Hellebuyck said he felt proud to represent the United States on the world stage and win a gold medal.
The American goaltender has embraced the recognition of his spectacular performance against Canada. In addition to being a Medal of Freedom recipient, he also received an honorary Secretary of Defense title.
Hellebuyck said previous generations inspired him, and he acknowledged the impact Team USA’s victory could have on young players.
“It’s one of those things, the more you say it, the more it shocks me. I know as a kid, I was dreaming and watching those guys [that came before me],” Hellebuyck told Fox News. “My big dream was to be like them one day and now I’m in those shoes. And the next generation is looking up at us.”
He added:
“I want to be that role model, I want to be as good as I can on and off the ice for those kids. And I want them to know their dreams can come true,” he said. “You never know what tomorrow brings and it can happen. Hard work and smart work, and doing the right things, it does pay off.”
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