Jack Hughes, the centre for the New Jersey Devils, has shared his exhilarating experiences following Team USA’s triumph at the 2026 Winter Olympics. After scoring the gold medal-winning goal against Canada, Hughes sat down for an exclusive interview with PEOPLE to reflect on the match and its aftermath.
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The stakes could not have been higher for Team USA, whose players had not tasted Olympic victory in 46 years. For the 24-year-old Hughes, the moment offered a chance to etch his name into the annals of hockey history. He recounted the dramatic scene during the final moments of the gold medal match, revealing that he vividly remembered the frenzied atmosphere. “I definitely didn’t black out,” Hughes chuckled, sporting a grin that showcased his now-famous gap-toothed smile resulting from a collision with Canada’s Sam Bennett during the critical third period.
In a tense twist, Hughes recalled the uncertainty of whether his shot had found the net. “I just remember looking to see if it went in, and then I turned the corner and the first guy I saw was Dylan Larkin sprinting up the ice throwing stuff. I couldn’t believe we did it,” he shared. Larkin, who also spoke about the Games ahead of Team USA’s travel to Milan, described the victory as a dream come true, reflecting the collective passion and ambition within the squad leading up to the games.
Having achieved a flawless tournament performance with a 6-0 record, Team USA defeated their bitter rivals Canada 2-1 on February 22, securing an Olympic title that had eluded them for nearly five decades. Hughes explained how the team drew motivation from a previous overtime loss to Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, stating, “We knew that the big one was coming a year later, and it was definitely motivation.”
Overall, he expressed pride in the team’s achievement, emphasising how the gold medal victory has altered the landscape of USA Hockey. “It’s just changed everything for USA Hockey and hockey in America. All of our lives, we’re Olympic gold medalists, so it changes all of our lives,” he remarked.
In the wake of the Games, Hughes has embraced a busier schedule, making myriad public appearances. His recent engagements include a guest spot on Saturday Night Live alongside his brother, Quinn Hughes, and an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where they were joined by Team USA women’s hockey captain Hilary Knight. Hughes even participated in a promotional event for Raising Cane’s in Times Square, showcasing their fun side while interacting with fans.
Since being selected first overall in the 2019 NHL draft by the New Jersey Devils—where he serves as alternate captain—Hughes has more than demonstrated his ability to shine in the limelight. However, the newfound fame associated with his Olympic success appears to have been met with a level-headed attitude by Hughes. “I am who I am still; I’m just a hockey player,” he stated with a sense of humility. He has thoroughly enjoyed sharing these exciting experiences alongside his brother, noting that their time together has been a highlight.
Upon returning to New Jersey, Hughes received a warm welcome, marked by multiple honours for his Olympic success. Notably, during his first game back against the Buffalo Sabres, he took a celebratory lap with fellow Team USA forward Tage Thompson—a poignant moment for both players and the wider USA Hockey community.
Transitioning back into the NHL after such high stakes could not have been easy; however, Hughes seems to have settled in remarkably well. During a recent game against the New York Rangers, he showcased his scoring prowess with a hat trick, amidst chants of “USA” from fans, including supporters of the rival team. “It’s definitely different; the stakes are a little higher,” Hughes joked, commenting on the considerable contrast between Olympic gameplay and the regular NHL season.
Ultimately, Hughes remains focused on the team’s collective achievement rather than personal legacy. “It’s not about legacy; it’s more about being the team that got it done,” he reflected. The success of the 2026 Olympic team has significant implications for future generations of American hockey players, a sentiment Hughes holds close to heart. He concluded, “To do it for all the kids coming, that’s the best part. They’re gonna remember the 2026 team that won gold.”