STOCKHOLM — In a historic moment, the United States men’s ice hockey team claimed its first gold medal at the IIHF World Championship in 92 years, a feat made even more poignant by the memory of Johnny Gaudreau.
Goalie Jeremy Swayman expressed the heartfelt sentiment of the team, emphasizing their purpose in honoring Gaudreau.
“We did it for a reason. We had a purpose,” Swayman said following the victory.
He noted that throughout the tournament, the players felt a strong connection to Gaudreau, who tragically lost his life alongside his brother, Matthew, in a bicycling accident in August 2024.
“This gold goes to him and the legacy that he’s paved for all USA hockey players. It’s something that we were really backing behind. We knew that he was with us and had our spirit,” Swayman added.
Gaudreau, who represented the U.S. five times at the World Championship, was deeply admired for his contributions to the sport and the national team. Defenseman Zach Werenski, who played alongside him, stated, “No one deserves this gold medal more than him. It’s been awesome honoring him, especially tonight after winning. It makes me emotional thinking about it, but it’s an awesome way to honor him.”
The players carried Gaudreau’s No. 13 jersey throughout the tournament, ensuring that his presence was felt even in his absence.
After their victory over Switzerland in the finals, which concluded with a thrilling goal from Tage Thompson in overtime, the team brought Gaudreau’s jersey onto the ice during the trophy presentation.
Thompson fondly remembered Gaudreau, stating, “In the short time I’ve gotten to know him, he was just an amazing guy, lots of fun to be around. He’s done so much for the game and so much for USA Hockey, so this one is special.”
During his career, Gaudreau amassed an impressive 43 points at the World Championship, making him the all-time leader for U.S. players in the tournament.
His impact on the game was echoed by defenseman Brady Skjei, who recognized Gaudreau’s integral role in USA Hockey.
“To honor him in that way was amazing. Johnny was an amazing person. A bunch of us knew him really well. He was such a key person and player for USA Hockey for years. I think he’s watching us right now and he’s very proud,” Skjei shared.
Skjei also confirmed that it was likely Werenski’s initiative to display Gaudreau’s jersey during the celebrations, a fitting tribute considering their bond through their time together on the Blue Jackets and on the national team.
“I think about him before I go on the ice every game,” Werenski reflected.
“In Columbus, it hangs there. Last year’s tournament was the last time I got to play with him and share the ice with him. He deserves this. I’m just really happy to get a gold medal for him this year.”
The victory not only symbolizes a significant achievement for the U.S. hockey team but also serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Johnny Gaudreau and his contributions to the sport.
As the team celebrates this historic moment, they do so with the spirit of a beloved teammate who inspired many and left an indelible mark on USA Hockey.
image source from：https://www.nhl.com/news/united-states-honors-johnny-gaudreau-after-winning-gold-medal-at-world-championship
