Team USA won the gold medal at the 2025 IIHF World Championships.
After defeating Switzerland 1-0 in overtime, they snapped a 92-year drought without winning gold at the Worlds.
When Team USA captain Clayton Keller went up to accept the trophy, he was joined by Columbus Blue Jackets’ Zach Werenski, Buffalo Sabres’ Tage Thompson, Nashville Predators' Brady Skjei and Vancouver Canucks’ Connor Garland — all carrying a Gaudreau jersey.
They placed the jersey over the trophy in honour of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, who tragically passed away before the 2024-25 season.
All year long, Team USA found ways to honour the Gaudreau brothers — including keeping Johnny's sweater hanging in his locker stall throughout the tournament.
It’s been a strong year for USA Hockey on the international stage, and it ended with a gold medal at the Worlds to finally end the 92-year wait.
As mentioned, Werenski was part of the gold-winning team. That’s exactly why he committed to going — he wanted to bring a gold medal back home before what will be a busy summer of weddings, including his own.
In the tournament, he finished with one goal and five assists for six points, was a +8, and had 21 shots on goal.
Werenski will now shift his attention to his wedding. As for the Blue Jackets' organization and fans, focus turns to the NHL Draft on June 27th and 28th, followed by one of the most important free agencies in franchise history.
