How Old is Hilary Knight? Celebrating a Hockey Legend
News alerts are buzzing about Hilary Knight, the phenomenal U.S. hockey star who recently etched her name into the history books. But just how old is Hilary Knight, and what makes her career so remarkable? Let’s dive into the story of this incredible athlete.
A Record-Breaking Moment at the Milan Cortina Olympics
During the dramatic gold medal game of the Milan Cortina Olympics, Hilary Knight, at the age of 36, achieved a monumental feat: she became the all-time leading scorer in U.S. women’s hockey history. Her 15th career Olympic goal, a deflection that tied the game against Canada 1-1 with just two minutes left in regulation, was a moment to remember.
This wasn’t just a goal; it was a milestone. Knight surpassed the previous record held by legendary American players Natalie Darwitz and Katie King, whom she affectionately called “legendary players” after tying their mark against Finland on February 7th. Initially, she didn’t even realize she’d matched the record!
Olympic Dominance and Career Stats
Knight’s achievement is even more impressive when considering the speed at which she reached it. She reached 14 goals in just 15 career Olympic games, a faster pace than Katie King’s 16 games. This Olympic appearance was her 27th, extending her U.S. record. Her passion for the game is evident in her words: “I just love scoring, and that pure elation of finding the back of the net. It’s a little-kid moment. When you score, it’s pure excitement.”
Beyond goals, Knight also holds the record for career points at an Olympics, with 33, surpassing Jenny Potter. The celebration after her goal against Canada at Santagiulia hockey arena was a testament to her impact, with teammates rushing to surround and congratulate her.
A History of Excellence
Hilary Knight’s Olympic journey includes silver medals in 2010, 2014, and 2022, and a coveted gold medal in 2018. Remarkably, the U.S. and Canada have faced each other in every gold medal game throughout her career. The rivalry between these two nations is legendary, having combined to win all 31 major tournaments in women’s hockey history. The U.S. has recently demonstrated its dominance, winning world championships in 2023 and 2025, while Canada took the title in 2024.
Beyond the Ice: Personal Life
Adding to her recent successes, Knight celebrated another milestone: her engagement to longtime girlfriend Brittany Bowe, a U.S. speedskater. This personal happiness adds another layer to an already inspiring story.
Hilary Knight: A Legacy in the Making
Hilary Knight isn’t just a hockey player; she’s a symbol of dedication, perseverance, and excellence. At 36, she continues to inspire fans and athletes alike. Her record-breaking career is a testament to her talent and unwavering commitment to the sport. You can learn more about women’s hockey and the Olympics at Team USA Hockey and the official Olympics website.
