Quinn Hughes Hails USA as ‘Greatest Country in the World’
Quinn Hughes, a prominent player on Team USA, expressed gratitude and pride following his game-winning goal against Sweden in the Winter Olympics. After securing a quarterfinal victory on February 18, 2026, Hughes noted the enthusiastic response from fans in Italy, highlighting his appreciation for representing the United States. “I love the U.S., and it’s the greatest country in the world,” he stated during an interview with NBC.
Team USA’s Journey in the Winter Olympics
The American men’s hockey team aims to claim gold after a disappointing performance in the 2022 tournament. With their recent victory, they are now positioned just two wins away from achieving this goal and will face Slovakia in the semifinals on Friday.
Key Moments from the Quarterfinals
- Game-Winning Goal: Hughes scored 3:27 into overtime.
- Opponent: The team defeated Sweden with a final score of 2-1.
- Previous Matchup: Mika Zibanejad of Sweden tied the game in the third period.
A Contrast in Team Attitudes
As American athletes express their feelings about the country, contrasting opinions have emerged. Freestyle skier Hunter Hess faced backlash for voicing his critiques of America. In response, former President Donald Trump labeled him a “loser” for his comments on social media.
In stark contrast, Hughes continues to share his pride in representing Team USA, reminiscent of past tournaments, such as the iconic 1980 Lake Placid Games, known as the “Miracle on Ice.” The stakes are high as Team USA looks to overcome Slovakia, with a potential matchup against Canada looming ahead.
Looking Forward
Hughes emphasized the importance of staying focused. “You just want to move on and be ready to go,” he remarked after the win. With the gold medal now within reach, Team USA is poised for a thrilling continuation of this Olympic journey.
