Marie-Philip Poulin has solidified her status in Olympic women's hockey by becoming the all-time leading goal scorer in the competition. At 34 years old, she achieved this remarkable milestone during the semifinal match against Switzerland on Monday, where she scored her 19th career goal, giving Canada a 1-0 lead.
Just under ten minutes later, Poulin increased her tally to 20 goals, cementing her place in Olympic history while extending Canada's lead over Switzerland. The record-breaking goal was a powerful one-timer launched from the top of the zone, which managed to navigate through traffic before eluding Swiss goaltender Andrea Braendli and finding the back of the net. Poulin immediately followed this up with her second goal of the game, converting a rebound while her parents cheered from the stands at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena.
Prior to her record-breaking performance, Poulin had tied the legendary Hayley Wickenheiser for the number of Olympic goals scored by a female player, netting her 18th in a quarterfinal matchup against Germany last Saturday. This game marked her return after missing two matches due to a lower-body injury, showcasing her resilience and dedication to the sport.
Poulin is a five-time Olympian, with an impressive track record that includes three gold medals won at the Vancouver 2010, Sochi 2014, and Beijing 2022 Olympic Games. She also earned a silver medal during the Pyeongchang Games in 2018. Not only is she known for her scoring ability, but she has also earned the nickname "Captain Clutch," a title that reflects her knack for scoring pivotal game-winning goals in each of her three gold-medal victories.
Before participating in these Games, Poulin had already accumulated a commendable record, with 17 goals, 18 assists, and a total of 35 points across 22 games played in Olympic history. Her remarkable achievements have positioned her as one of the most significant figures in women's hockey, further enhancing the legacy she is building with every game.
As the ongoing Olympic story unfolds, Marie-Philip Poulin continues to shine as a key player for Team Canada, earning well-deserved recognition for her contributions on the ice. Her journey illustrates the excellence and perseverance characteristic of elite athletes, inspiring future generations of players in the sport.
