Historic Victory: U.S. USA Wins Men’s World Hockey World Championship Since 1933
For the first time in 92 years, the USA wins Men’s World Hockey gold medal at the IIHF World Championship. Team USA defeated Switzerland 1-0 in a dramatic overtime finish. The final, held in Stockholm, ended decades of frustration as Buffalo Sabres star Tage Thompson scored the winning goal just 2:02 into sudden death.
The game was a battle of elite defenses and standout goaltending. Switzerland’s Leonardo Genoni entered the match with a 0.99 goals-against average. On the American side, Boston Bruins’ Jeremy Swayman stayed perfect throughout the tournament. Both goalies held firm during regulation, sending the scoreless game into overtime. Despite the U.S. outshooting Switzerland 39-24, they couldn’t break through in regular time USA Wins Men’s World Hockey .
Thompson Seals the Win
Thompson, who scored 44 goals in the 2024–25 NHL season, stepped up in overtime. With assists from Logan Cooley (Utah Mammoth) and Brady Skjei (Nashville Predators), he found open ice and fired a shot past Genoni. The golden goal sent the American bench into celebration. Thompson’s performance also boosted his chances of making the 2026 U.S. Olympic team for the Milan-Cortina Games.
Team USA’s win held emotional weight beyond the scoreboard. Players paid tribute to Johnny Gaudreau, the Columbus Blue Jackets forward who died in a biking accident last summer alongside his brother. His jersey hung in the dressing room throughout the tournament. After the win, teammates draped it over the trophy in a powerful show of remembrance.
Gaudreau still holds the American record for most points and assists in World Championship history. His spirit motivated the team during their historic run.
While the U.S. claimed Olympic golds in 1960 and 1980—also counted as world titles—this is their first standalone World Championship win since 1933. Switzerland, despite a strong tournament and Genoni’s 241-minute shutout streak, continues to chase its first title.
This victory marks more than just a gold medal. It signals a new chapter for American hockey—driven by talent, unity, and the legacy of those who came before.
