The memory of Jarome Iginla’s pass, the young star’s goal, and the ensuing celebration are etched in the minds of many. The eruption of joy across the nation when Sidney Crosby, at 22, scored the winning goal in overtime at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics is still vivid. After almost 16 years, Crosby considers that golden moment on home soil as one of the highlights of his illustrious hockey career.
However, alongside the triumph, Crosby recalls the heartbreak when the Canadian team, mere seconds away from securing a regulation victory, allowed the American forward Zach Parise to tie the game. The feeling of coming so close to fulfilling his childhood dreams in Cole Harbour, N.S., only to see it slip away like quicksand, remains etched in his memory.
Prior to overtime, while the Canadian players were unsettled, veteran defenseman Scott Niedermayer remained composed, exuding unwavering faith in the team. Head coach Mike Babcock urged someone to step up and become the hero of the overtime period.
For Crosby, the devastation transformed into determination and intensity. With the advantage of playing at home, they were determined not to let the opportunity slip away, a moment Crosby was prepared to seize.
“The confidence and belief were palpable as we headed into overtime,” Crosby shared with CBC Olympics host Ariel Helwani in an exclusive interview. “Even as a young player, I sensed it, and it was amazing to experience. Going out there and getting the job done was truly special.”
Host Ariel Helwani asks golden goal scorer Sidney Crosby about if there is anything that the public does not know about his overtime goal at the Vancouver 2010 men’s hockey final.
At 38, Crosby, no longer the youthful Sid the Kid, anticipates another chance to create Olympic magic in Italy this February. Recently, Lululemon revealed the attire for athletes at the 2026 Milano-Cortina Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, appointing Crosby as a Team Canada ambassador.
It is highly likely that Crosby will sport the captain’s C when Canada faces the Czech Republic on Feb. 12. His selection as the flagbearer at the opening ceremony would not come as a surprise.
