The gold medal game between the United States and Canada ended with a close result, which was expected, but Canada’s loss wasn’t. The United States won its first Olympic gold in 46 years after a tight game that went to overtime. Canada created chances offensively and controlled much of the play, but the result was decided in the extra period.
On Canada’s side, the sadness went beyond players and coaches, as those close to the players also reacted. Among them was Lauren Kyle, the wife of Connor McDavid, who followed the team in Milan.
Lauren Kyle’s Message After Connor McDavid’s Olympic Loss to USA
Canada lost 2-1 in overtime on Sunday at the 2026 Winter Olympics, ending their run in the final. The United States secured the win with a goal early in the 3-on-3 overtime period.
The result meant completion of the first Olympic tournament with NHL players since 2014, which added more importance to the matchup. Canada had won the last two Olympic gold medals in such events, so the loss stood out.
Canada did everything it could and controlled play for long stretches, creating several chances, but it could not convert enough of them. Connor Hellebuyck made 41 saves and played a key role for the United States, blocking every shot attempt and securing the gold.
On the other hand, McDavid served as captain in place of Sidney Crosby, who missed the final due to injury. McDavid finished the tournament with 13 points and was named MVP, but the result did not go Canada’s way.
After the game, McDavid’s wife, Lauren, shared a message on Instagram. She attended games during the tournament and posted updates from the stands.
Following the loss, she wrote, “So incredibly proud of my husband and this entire team.. The sacrifice, the discipline, the heart, and the way they carried themselves with humility, class, and respect. Watching you wear the Maple Leaf and leave everything on the ice will always mean more than any scoreboard. Forever proud of you and never been more proud to be a Canadian.”
Lauren’s message highlighted the effort shown by the team during the tournament, with full commitment to their goal. Canada outshot the United States 42-28 and had more control, especially after Cale Makar’s game-tying goal, but the game turned on a single play in overtime.
The loss came just days after the Canadian women’s team also lost their final to the United States in overtime.
READ MORE: Sidney Crosby Addresses Connor McDavid’s Superhuman Effort in Carrying Team Canada
McDavid’s performance stood out during the tournament, even with the loss in the final. He was dominant offensively, continuing his NHL regular-season performance, where he had 96 points, but the result was hard to forget, and it will linger for a while. All players will now put their focus back on the regular season.
The Edmonton Oilers return to action with three games in four days, starting in Anaheim. They will then travel to Los Angeles and San Jose, which makes for a quick shift after the Olympic schedule.
