MILAN — In Hilary Knight’s final Olympics, she once again came through in a big moment.
Veteran defenseman Megan Keller netted the golden goal in 3-on-3 overtime, leading the United States women’s hockey team to an Olympic gold after defeating archrival Canada 2-1 on Thursday.
This pivotal moment was made possible by Knight, who deflected a shot from defenseman Laila Edwards to score the game-tying goal with 2:04 left in the third period, reigniting Team USA’s hope.
The U.S. had previously permitted only one goal throughout the tournament until Canada fourth liner Kristen O’Neill scored while short-handed early in the second period of the final match.
This marked the last Olympic game for the 36-year-old Knight, who holds the record as the most decorated player in U.S. women’s hockey history. She announced last May that these Games — her fifth — would be her finale.
With her third-period goal, she secured her second gold medal and became the sole owner of the U.S. record for most Olympic goals (15) and points (33), surpassing both men and women. Knight also had a remarkable Olympics, proposing to her partner, U.S. speedskater Brittany Bowe, just two days prior to the gold medal match.
The U.S. roster showcased a compelling mix of seasoned veterans and emerging young talent, symbolizing a generational shift at the 2026 Games. Wisconsin seniors Caroline Harvey and Edwards, who collectively tallied 18 points and had the most ice time among U.S. skaters, have childhood photos with Knight.
The United States allowed only two goals during the tournament, matching the 2006 and 2010 Canadian teams for the fewest goals permitted in a single Olympics by a women’s team.
U.S. goalie Aerin Frankel made 30 impressive saves but struggled to receive offensive backup as Team USA frequently squandered chances in regulation until Knight struck.
For extended periods in the gold medal match, the U.S. appeared more rattled than they had throughout the entire Olympics. Previously, they had scored at least five goals in every game, dominating opponents with a combined score of 31-1.
This victory solidified a commanding tournament for the American women.
“I’ve been part of incredible teams, with outstanding teammates and Hall of Famers,” four-time Olympian Kendall Coyne Schofield stated to ESPN before the game. “But this one feels particularly special.”
The United States showcased unparalleled depth, with ten players accumulating at least five points — six more than any other nation.
The rest of the world has yet to close the gap with the U.S. and Canada in women’s hockey. The North American rivals have clinched every gold and silver medal since the sport’s Olympic debut in 1998.
The outcome in Milan was predictable given Team USA’s sweep of the four-game Rivalry Series leading up to the Olympics, winning by a combined score of 24-7. The U.S. entered the final after a streak of five consecutive shutouts, including a 5-0 victory over Canada during the group stage. yet, the Canadians were missing their captain Marie-Philip Poulin (right knee injury) for that match and appeared to still be managing the injury, as cameras caught her receiving assistance from the locker room to the ice in the semifinal.
Poulin had scored in each of her prior four Olympic gold medal games but was unable to find the net on Thursday.
