Trump Announces Team USA Hockey Goalie Connor Hellebuyck Will Receive Presidential Medal of Freedom

President Donald Trump announced during his 2026 State of the Union address that Connor Hellebuyck, the star goaltender of the United States men's national ice hockey team who helped lead Team USA to its first Olympic gold medal since 1980, will be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor. Hellebuyck made 41 saves in the thrilling 2-1 overtime victory over Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics, and Trump recognized his performance and contribution to national pride during the speech.