Jack Hughes Scores Golden Goal for USA's First Win Since 1980

Minutes after taking a high stick to the face that knocked out teeth and left him bleeding, Jack Hughes scored the overtime goal that gave Team USA its first Olympic hockey gold medal since the Miracle on Ice in 1980.

The image captured immediately after says everything. Hughes stands with an American flag draped over his shoulder, blood streaming down his face, teeth missing, and a smile that radiates pure joy.

The 24-year-old New Jersey Devils center took a pass in overtime and slipped the puck past Canada's goalie Jordan Binnington on Sunday in Milan. The goal sparked celebrations across the country and cemented Hughes as an American sports hero.

Hockey runs deep in the Hughes family. His father coached in the NHL, and his mother played for Team USA's women's hockey team and now works in their player development program.

Both of his brothers were on the ice with him in Milan. Older brother Quinn scored the overtime goal against Sweden that sent Team USA to the semifinals, while younger brother Luke also suited up for the squad.

Born in Orlando and raised in Toronto, Hughes moved to Michigan as a teenager for the National Team Development Program. He set a record there with 228 points that still stands among a list of alumni that includes NHL All-Stars and future Hall of Famers.

The New Jersey Devils selected him first overall in 2019, and he jumped straight to the NHL. Since his breakout 2021-22 season, Hughes has scored 135 goals and added 200 assists in 287 games.

Why This Inspires

Hughes could have left the ice after getting hit in the face. Instead, he stayed in the game with blood pouring down his jersey and scored the biggest goal of his life. That image of him celebrating through the pain captures something pure about dedication and sacrifice for your team and country.

The photo has already become one of those rare sports moments that transcends the game itself. It shows what people are willing to give when something bigger than themselves is on the line.

No goal in Hughes' career will ever match what he did on Sunday, the moment an American hero was born.