Minnesota’s Olympic Gold Drought Ends with Dramatic Women’s Hockey Triumph

Minnesota’s long wait for Olympic gold at the 2026 Winter Games ended in electrifying fashion Thursday, as the Minnesotan-powered U.S. women’s hockey team defeated Canada 2–1 in overtime to capture the gold medal.

The victory at the 2026 Winter Olympics marked a dramatic redemption for Team USA, which fell short of gold four years ago. Eight players with Minnesota ties helped propel the Americans to the top of the podium, underscoring the state’s deep and enduring influence on women’s hockey.

The championship clash — a classic North American rivalry — delivered high drama from start to finish. The game-winning goal, scored in overtime by Megan Keller after a dazzling individual effort, sealed the win and instantly became one of the defining highlights of the Games. Beyond the emotional payoff, the thrilling final also served as a powerful showcase for the burgeoning Professional Women's Hockey League, reinforcing the growing visibility and commercial momentum behind the women’s game.

A Breakthrough Moment for Minnesota Athletes

Minnesota sent a sizable delegation of athletes to Milan-Cortina, but until Thursday, none had secured a gold medal. With only days remaining in competition, the women’s hockey triumph provided a breakthrough moment for the state’s contingent.

Athletes with Minnesota connections have nevertheless enjoyed notable success across several events. Cross-country skier Jessie Diggins, a native of Afton, earned bronze in the women’s 10-kilometer skate race. In curling, Duluth’s Cory Thiesse and Korey Dropkin captured silver in the mixed doubles competition, marking a historic achievement for the United States in the discipline. Alpine skier Paula Moltzan, who hails from Prior Lake, added a bronze medal in a newly introduced team event.

Setbacks and Challenges

The Games have also brought moments of disappointment for Minnesota-linked competitors. Lindsey Vonn, born in St. Paul, suffered a severe leg injury following a crash and was airlifted from the course, abruptly ending her Olympic campaign.

Meanwhile, the Chaska-based U.S. men’s curling team, led by Danny Casper, was eliminated from medal contention earlier than anticipated. Diggins, considered a strong gold-medal contender entering the Games, also faced adversity after bruising her rib in a fall during an early race. She and teammate Julia Kern finished fifth in the team sprint free event, narrowly missing the podium.

More Medal Hopes Ahead

Minnesota athletes still have opportunities to add to the medal tally. The U.S. men’s hockey team, featuring several Minnesota players, is set to face Slovakia in the semifinals. Standing in their path is Slovakian goaltender Samuel Hlavaj, who plays within the Minnesota Wild’s minor league system and has backstopped his national team’s unexpected Olympic run.

In addition, the St. Paul-based U.S. women’s curling team has advanced to the semifinals after a clutch performance against Switzerland, highlighted by a decisive shot from Burnsville’s Tabitha Peterson. Diggins will also compete in her final event, the women’s 50-kilometer mass start classic, in the closing days of the Games.

For Minnesota, however, the defining moment has already arrived. The women’s hockey team’s overtime victory not only secured Olympic gold but also reaffirmed the state’s reputation as a powerhouse in the sport — delivering redemption, pride, and a golden milestone on the world stage.

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