Hilary Knight, an esteemed figure in women’s ice hockey, recently shared insights about her career and future during an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. The conversation came shortly after her pivotal role in leading Team USA to victory at the 2026 Winter Olympics held in Milan, where the team secured a gold medal for their outstanding performance.
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At the age of 37, Knight reflected on her journey in the sport during her appearance at Flavor Flav’s SHE Weekend in Las Vegas. She expressed her commitment to maintaining a love for the game and making a meaningful impact in an authentic manner. “My whole thing is that I have to continue to love what I do,” Knight stated, underscoring the importance of personal satisfaction and integrity in her athletic pursuits.
The sense of fulfilment Knight has achieved was amplified during the Olympics, where she experienced a poignant moment by sharing the celebration with her friends and family—something that was missing during the previous Games. “To share that experience again was so special, because with the absence of it before, you realise how much it means,” she admitted.
In a previous statement to USA Today, Knight had indicated that the 2026 Winter Olympics would likely mark the conclusion of her time competing for Team USA. “It’s time,” she reflected, acknowledging that her lengthy tenure with the programme had afforded her countless opportunities and experiences. She described her feelings as one of closure, relishing the ability to choose her retirement timeline, a privilege not afforded to all athletes.
Despite contemplating retirement from international competition, Knight is far from ready to leave the ice entirely. As she continues her career in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), she recently signed a two-year contract extension with the Detroit franchise, ensuring her presence in the league until at least the 2028–2029 season. Over the years, her experience has spanned multiple organisations, including the National Women’s Hockey League (NWHL) and the Canadian Women’s Hockey League (CWHL).
Reflecting on her illustrious career, Knight articulated a philosophy that underscores her resilience and determination. “Honestly, standing up more times than I got knocked down,” she said, crediting her ability to overcome obstacles as a fundamental component of her success. This sentiment resonates deeply, particularly in the context of the challenges faced by women in sports, which continue to evolve.
Knight highlighted the importance of addressing these challenges, emphasising the need to dismantle barriers and create a more equitable environment for female athletes. “We’re trying to reduce and eliminate barriers and create more spaces for us, with more equitable support,” she noted, illustrating her commitment to advocating for the growth of women’s sports.
At the heart of her current endeavours is a determination to leave a positive legacy. Knight expressed pride in her ongoing efforts to enhance the sport and support fellow athletes. “What I am currently most proud of is continuing to show up and trying to make the sport better,” she affirmed, showcasing her dedication not only to her own career but also to the broader landscape of women’s ice hockey.
As Knight navigates this transitional period in her life, she remains focused on finding balance between retirement planning and her passion for the game. Her dedication and influence will undoubtedly resonate beyond her playing years, encouraging future generations of female athletes to pursue excellence in their chosen fields. With her career still unfolding, the ice hockey community eagerly anticipates the next chapter for Hilary Knight, both as an athlete and as a catalyst for change in women’s sports.