History on ice! A goal worth gold
Jack Hughes did it. With a tooth less after a high hit, but with his heart full, he connected with Zach Werenski’s pass at the beginning of overtime. That was the goal that gave the United States its first Olympic gold medal in men’s hockey since 1980.
And the date is no coincidence. It was just the 46th anniversary of the “Miracle on Ice.” Fate sometimes writes incredible scripts.
“The goal doesn’t matter. Just an incredible team, an incredible team victory,” said Hughes after the 2-1 win over Canada. “We are very proud to win for our country.”
There was a moment full of emotion and respect. Werenski and Matthew Tkachuk paraded in Johnny Gaudreau’s number 13 jersey, a tribute to the beloved player who tragically passed away in August of last year.
Other protagonists of an epic day
This gold was the 12th for the United States in Milan-Cortina. And they completed a double crown, because the women’s team also beat Canada for gold.
In other news, Eileen Gu continues to write legend. The skier born in the US but who competes for China added her sixth Olympic medal, becoming the most successful in her sport.
Sweden also had a huge day. First, Ebba Andersson redeemed herself from an earlier fall to win the 50km cross-country skiing.
“I have dreamed of this day for a long time,” Andersson said.
Then, the Swedish women won another gold, this time in curling.
Jessie Diggins, an American ski legend, said goodbye to the Olympic Games, finishing seconds away from the podium in her last 50 km. But he left peacefully.
“I can confidently say I couldn’t have tried harder,” Diggins said.
And Johannes Lochner literally closed his career with a flourish. The German pilot won the four-man bobsleigh event to add his second title in these Games.
“It’s like a dream… A perfect closing,” said Lochner.
A day full of epic endings and new beginnings.
