Team USA Wins First Hockey Gold Since 1980 'Miracle on Ice

For the first time since the "Miracle on Ice," American hockey players are standing on top of the Olympic podium with gold medals around their necks.

Team USA defeated Canada 2-1 in overtime at the Milan Cortina Olympics on Sunday, with Jack Hughes delivering the golden goal. The victory ended a 46-year wait for Olympic hockey glory and avenged last year's loss to Canada in the NHL's 4 Nations Face Off exhibition.

"We really pride ourselves on being true Americans that would do anything it takes for this country and to win," Matthew Tkachuk said during an exclusive interview on Fox News after the whirlwind celebration. Brothers Matthew and Brady Tkachuk both played in the historic game, making the victory even more special for their family.

The team visited President Trump at the White House shortly after returning home. Players described feeling the support of millions of Americans cheering them on from across the Atlantic Ocean.

"The second the boots hit the ground back here in the U.S., we could feel how many millions of people were tuning in, supporting us and just loving how we represent," Matthew Tkachuk added. "We were kind of America's Team there for a bit."

The Ripple Effect

The victory resonated far beyond the ice rink. Dylan Larkin, who trained at the U.S. National Team Development Program, explained how wearing the Stars and Stripes carries deep meaning for players who grew up dreaming of this moment.

"Every time I get the chance to represent the United States of America, I put that jersey on, I'm all in," Larkin said. The program instills national pride in young players years before they make it to the Olympics.

Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck called it "the most fun experience of my life" and noted the victory transcended sports. "You just see the pride in this country. It's bigger than the game of hockey," the Winnipeg Jets star said.

Canada has historically dominated Olympic hockey with nine gold medals, making Sunday's upset even sweeter. The American team was invited to attend Tuesday night's State of the Union address as honored guests.

A new generation of American hockey heroes has written its own miracle story.