Jack Eichel won his first Olympic gold medal on Sunday. After the victory, he shared heartfelt words about his journey to this momentous game.
Eichel began his NHL career with the Buffalo Sabres, a team that never made the playoffs during his tenure. In 2021, he was traded to the Vegas Golden Knights, where he went on to win a Stanley Cup in 2023.
READ MORE: Canada fans’ surprising gesture for Connor Hellebuyck
Jack Eichel emotional interview
Now, Eichel can add an Olympic gold medal to his trophy cabinet. After the final, where his Team USA defeated Team Canada in overtime, he became emotional while reflecting on how far he has come since his spinal disc herniation surgery in 2021.
“It’s hard to put into words. It’s crazy. I’m just really proud. It means a lot—so much pride. That group of guys, really unselfish, came together. It just means the world to be here, you know? It’s tough to get it out; I’m so emotional. To be able to have this medal forever, it means a lot. I’m so proud of that group,” Eichel told reporter Jackie Redmond.
Fans praise the interview
Fans online have praised Eichel, reacting to the emotional interview.
“That was a great interview. I’ve never seen Eichel so emotional. He almost didn’t have words to describe the feeling. I don’t remember him crying after winning a Cup,” one fan wrote on X.
“I haven’t worn my Eichel sweater since he left Buffalo. Today I busted it out and am wearing it with pride,” another fan wrote.
“Way to keep him in the moment when he doesn’t know what to say. This feels like therapy. A lot of ‘I don’t knows’ turned into heartfelt thoughts and tears he wanted to keep in. Brilliant,” a third fan chimed in.
You can watch the heartfelt moment below.
READ MORE: Matthew Tkachuk’s first words after winning Olympic gold
