Trump to Award Presidential Medal of Freedom to Hockey Star Connor Hellebuyck

Donald Trump announced that Olympic ice hockey star Connor Hellebuyck will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honour in the United States, following Team USA’s dramatic gold-medal victory at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

The announcement was made during Trump’s State of the Union address, where lawmakers applauded the team’s achievement.

Match-winning performance ended 46-year gold drought

Hellebuyck delivered a standout performance in the gold-medal match against Canada, making 41 crucial saves to secure a 2–1 victory.

The win ended a 46-year Olympic gold drought for the United States men’s hockey team and has been widely celebrated as a historic sporting moment.

Trump praised the triumph as a moment of national pride and said he would soon present the honour to the star goaltender.

Team USA honoured during State of the Union address

Members of the US men’s hockey team attended the address and were introduced before Congress, drawing bipartisan applause.

Their appearance highlighted the significance of the Olympic victory and its emotional resonance across the country.

Trump described the victory as a symbol of determination and national unity.

Women’s team absence draws attention

The celebration comes amid attention on the US women’s hockey team, which also won Olympic gold but declined an invitation to attend the State of the Union.

Trump acknowledged their achievement and said they would be invited to the White House for a separate honour ceremony.

Sporting victory spills into diplomatic and political arena

The high-profile win over Canada carried symbolic weight given the long-standing rivalry between the two hockey powerhouses.

Following the victory, the White House shared celebratory messages online, while Canadian political figures had earlier expressed confidence in their team’s chances.

The dramatic final intensified the sporting rivalry and generated global attention.

Medal of Freedom: honouring American icons

The Presidential Medal of Freedom recognises individuals who have made exceptional contributions to national interests, security, culture or public life.

During his presidency, Trump has previously awarded the honour to prominent athletes and public figures, recognising excellence in sports and national achievement.

Hellebuyck’s performance now joins that legacy, marking a defining moment in American sporting history.