Hockey Legend Defends Team USA's Gold Medal Celebration

The man who scored America's most famous hockey goal has a message for critics of the 2026 Olympic champions: stop complaining and celebrate greatness.

Mike Eruzione, who led Team USA to its legendary 1980 "Miracle on Ice" victory, spoke out this week defending the 2026 gold medal team. The squad recently faced backlash after meeting with President Trump and attending the State of the Union address following their overtime victory against Canada.

"Shut up and just enjoy what they did," Eruzione told TMZ Sports. "When you experience that moment and have an Olympic gold medal around your neck and the joy that it brought to so many people, who listens to people complaining? Shame on you."

The 2026 team's celebration included a presidential phone call, a Miami party, and an Oval Office visit. Some criticized players for wearing political hats, but Eruzione sees it differently.

He reminded critics that after his historic 1980 win, he spoke with President Jimmy Carter without controversy. "There was no negative press," he recalled.

For Eruzione, the focus should remain on athletic excellence. The 2026 victory marked America's first Olympic gold in men's hockey since his team defeated the Soviets 46 years ago. Jack Hughes scored the golden goal in overtime, creating a moment that united fans nationwide.

Why This Inspires

Eruzione's defense cuts through political noise to remind us what sports can do at their best. His words celebrate something increasingly rare: a shared moment of national pride that transcends divisions.

"Other than being a police officer, a firefighter, or somebody in the military who protects and serves our country, there's no greater feeling than putting on a USA jersey," Eruzione said. "You're not playing for Boston, Chicago, New York. You're playing for your country."

The message resonated with fans. When Jack Hughes returned to his New Jersey Devils home crowd Wednesday, he received a standing ovation. He even brought out teammate Tage Thompson from the opposing Buffalo Sabres to share the applause.

Eruzione estimates 99% of Olympic athletes are simply proud to represent America. The women's hockey team also excelled at these Games, possibly fielding the best roster in U.S. history.

Sometimes the story isn't about the controversy around a moment but the moment itself: young athletes achieving the impossible and bringing joy to millions.