USA women's hockey captain Hilary Knight says she played through a torn MCL

Hilary Knight said she played through a torn MCL while helping the U.S. win gold at the 2026 Milan–Cortina Olympics, and the Seattle Torrent placed her on long-term injured reserve as she recovers.

Hilary Knight said she played through a torn medial collateral ligament while helping the United States secure gold at the 2026 Milan–Cortina Olympics. The Seattle Torrent forward discussed the injury during an appearance on CBS Mornings after host Gayle King announced the diagnosis. The Torrent later placed their captain on long-term injured reserve, citing a lower-body injury suffered at the Olympics. Knight was also one of the U.S. flag bearers at the closing ceremony. Key details: - Knight described playing through the injury as "a mental gymnastic challenge" and said she was "a little banged up." - CBS Mornings co-host Gayle King announced the torn MCL diagnosis during the interview. - The Seattle Torrent announced Knight had been placed on long-term injured reserve with a lower-body injury from the Olympics. - Knight had three goals and seven assists in 14 regular-season games with Seattle before the injury. - She earned her second Olympic gold and fifth Olympic medal and set U.S. Olympic records for all-time goals and points. - Knight made media appearances on Saturday Night Live and The Tonight Show and proposed to U.S. speed skater Brittany Bowe at the Winter Games. Summary: Knight’s decision to play through injury was disclosed in media interviews and followed by the Torrent’s move to long-term injured reserve. The team said it will support her recovery and rely on her leadership while she is out. Undetermined at this time.