US men's hockey team returns as Olympic champions after thrilling overtime win
The US men's hockey team returned to Miami as Olympic champions after a dramatic 2-1 overtime win against Canada. Their gold medal victory at the Milano Cortina 2026 Games marked a historic moment for American hockey. The players were greeted with celebrations as they arrived back in Florida on Monday evening.
The team touched down at Miami International Airport, where a water salute honoured their achievement. Miami-Dade County mayor Daniella Levine Cava joined the welcome, alongside cheering fans. Among the returning stars was Florida Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk, who received a particularly warm reception from supporters.
President Donald Trump extended an invitation to the gold medallists, with many players set to attend the State of the Union address in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday. The group will then reunite for a victory dinner at a local steakhouse before a night out at a popular Miami nightclub.
The NHL season resumes on Wednesday, with players rejoining their clubs after the Olympic break. The Panthers, currently eight points behind the Boston Bruins for the second wild card spot, will host the Toronto Maple Leafs on Thursday. Auston Matthews, Team USA's captain and Maple Leafs centre, thanked fans for their support and called representing his country an honour.
The Panthers' playoff push now continues with renewed energy. Their first post-Olympic test comes against Matthews and his high-scoring Maple Leafs team.
The gold medal win has brought fresh excitement to the Panthers and their fans. With the NHL season back in action, Florida's players will shift focus to closing the playoff gap. Their next challenge arrives quickly as they face Toronto on home ice this week.
