James Nichols
Team USA goaltender Connor Hellebuyck can’t stop winning.
On Tuesday at the White House, President of the United States, Donald Trump, awarded the gold medal goaltender with the Presidential Medal of Freedom—which is considered the U.S. government’s highest civilian honor. Awarded by the President, it is often presented to individuals to recognize a lifetime of significant achievements in the arts, public service, science, or other fields.
While delivering the State of the Union address, Trump stated, “I’ve never seen a goaltender play as well as [USA] goalie Connor Hellebuyck… I just want to tell you that the members of this great hockey squad will be very happy to hear based on their vote and my vote—and in this case my vote was more important—that I will soon be presenting Connor with our highest civilian honor. It has been given to many athletes over the years. But 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 and Team USA defeated Canada on Sunday morning to claim gold for the United States at the Olympics for the first time since 1980, the Miracle on Ice. The Team USA goaltender made 41 saves on 42 shots, and New Jersey Devils star Jack Hughes netted the golden goal to down Canada in overtime.
The Winnipeg Jets goaltender who backstopped USA led his country to five wins in six games, while Jeremy Swayman captured one win in the preliminary round. He registered an astounding 1.16 GAA and .956 SV% and finished the tournament with 5.92 goals saved above average, comfortably in first place.
Hellebuyck’s most notable moment from the tournament was a sprawling paddle save on Canada defenseman, Devon Toews, which certainly stole a goal from the opponent which could have changed the outcome of the gold medal game.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom adds to Hellebuyck’s likely Hall-of-Fame career, which now includes a gold medal, a Hart Trophy (2024-25), three Vezina Awards (2019-20, 2023-24, 2024-25), and four All-Star nominations.
