President Trump awarded Connor Hellebuyck the Presidential Medal of Freedom for leading Team USA to Olympic hockey gold in 2026.

In his 2026 State of the Union speech, President Donald Trump declared that U.S. For helping Team USA win a gold medal at the Winter Olympics, hockey goalie Connor Hellebuyck will be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the country. Hellebuyck's exceptional performance, which included 41 saves in the 2-1 overtime final victory over Canada and ended a 46-year drought for American men's Olympic hockey, is recognized with this award. The entire men's team attended the announcement, which was made as part of a larger celebration of national accomplishments. America. Due to scheduling conflicts, the gold medal-winning women's hockey team declined the invitation. Trump’s remarks drew bipartisan applause, though some Democrats criticized the gesture amid ongoing political tensions.