Tom Wilson motivated by 4 Nations snub as he targets 2026 Winter Olympics with Team Canada
Washington Capitals forward Tom Wilson has built a career on intensity, grit, and physicality—things that would've suited perfectly into the high-powered 4 Nations Face-Off showdown between Canada and the United States earlier this year.
But when the puck was dropped at Montreal's Bell Centre on February 15, and fists began to fly seconds later, Wilson was not in attendance—left off of Canada's original roster.
Being left out of the 4 Nations Face-Off is driving Tom Wilson's Olympic goalmanship
Addressing the Smilezone Celebrity Golf Tournament 2025 in Brampton, Ontario, Tom Wilson owned up to feeling let down as he watched the mayhem ensue without being included. 'What would I have been feeling if I were playing there?' he said, recalling the emotionally charged battle.
'Leading up to (4 Nations), obviously, I was a little bummed not to be part of it. And then, leading up to it, I was like, You know what? I'll enjoy the break and not think too much about it.
The way that started, I mean, it just added to how much I wanted to be in that game, to be part of the team.' As the players lined up for the puck drop, the action kicked off with various players' gloves coming off.
Tom Wilson's Olympic Dreams: Capitals Star Aims for Team Canada 2026 | NHL News
2026 Winter Olympics
now front of mind for Tom Wilson
Though missing the 4 Nations showdown hurt, Tom Wilson isn't bitter about it.
'Obviously, it's a dream your whole life to be mentioned in that type of realm of the guys with that type of pedigree.' He also added, 'There's a lot of really good superstar names, and just to be even in the mix is a huge privilege. I'm just going to try and play as well as I can until the final team is announced and put my name in the hat.'
Tom Wilson recognized the intense competition ahead. With a pool of talent comprised of some of the best NHL superstars, making the final Olympic team won't come easily.
But that's not discouraging him. "I'm just going to try and play as good as I can until they announce the final team and throw my name in the hat," he said.
Also read:
Kaapo Kakko, Seattle Kraken's $12.75m gamble: Who is the NHL's Finnish enigma?
Tom Wilson might have missed the Montreal fireworks, but if he keeps playing and practicing at the level he demands of himself, he could soon exchange disappointment for Olympic pride. In the meantime, all attention is focused on Calgary's training camp—and whether Wilson's name will be included in the lineup he has always hoped to join.
FAQs
How old is Tom Wilson?
31 years
Where was Tom Wilson born?
Toronto
Since when has Tom Wilson been playing hockey?
Since the age of two.
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