26-year-old Quinn Hughes scored the winning goal in the golden game of the 2026 Olympics Hockey tournament, defeating Canada in overtime 2-1. Afterwards, he gave an interview that made it clear he was there to win for the country he loves, America. His message went viral. He said, “It’s special. … I love the U.S. It’s the greatest country in the world, so [I’m] happy to represent it here with these guys. … It’s really special.”
Alysia Lui came to America from China, and her father faced great threats by the CCP to do so. Even after she came to America, the CCP was still threatening to kidnap her and force her to skate for China. She survived, going on to win the gold medal for her country of choice, America, knowing better than most Americans the blessing this country is to those who simply want to be self-stewarded people, to be free.
USA Hockey Player Touts His ‘Love’ For America After OT Win – thefederalist.com
Some American athletes may be predisposed to trash their country on the world stage while competing in the 2026 Winter Olympics. But the same can’t be said for Team USA hockey player Quinn Hughes.
The 26-year-old defenseman wasn’t shy about voicing his love for America following his game-winning goal in Team USA’s overtime win against Sweden on Wednesday. The moment came when a reporter asked Hughes in a post-game press gaggle about what it was like playing in an atmosphere with fans displaying American flags all throughout the arena.
“It’s special. … I love the U.S.,” Hughes said. “It’s the greatest country in the world, so [I’m] happy to represent it here with these guys. … It’s really special.”
Wednesday’s game was by no means an easy win (2-1) for the Americans.

