In the world of sports, relationships sometimes blossom in the most unexpected places. For U.S. women’s hockey team captain Hilary Knight and veteran speed skater Brittany Bowe, their romance took root during the 2022 Beijing Olympics, leading to a memorable first date amidst the intensity of competition.
A Serendipitous Connection in Beijing
Brittany, 37, reflected on their relationship in an interview with People in January, stating, “Hilary and I have known each other for a number of years through different Team USA events… but that’s the first time we really did have time to connect and get to know one another.” The couple spent their time in Beijing walking together after dinner, with Hilary playfully asking, “Oh, do you want to go for a walk after dinner?”
Masked Meetings and Heartfelt Moments
Despite their “fully masked” walks not being perceived as “romantic” according to Hilary, 36, she found them to be “cute.” Brittany added that their isolation from family and friends allowed them to focus solely on each other. “We didn’t have the family, the friends, no outside distractions,” Brittany explained, emphasizing how much they appreciated the time to bond.
A Bronze Medal and a New Chapter
Brittany, who clinched a bronze medal in the 10,000 meters, considered finding a girlfriend to be her “the biggest win coming out of Beijing for sure.” The couple, now settled in Salt Lake City, enjoys spending their free time engaged in off-ice hobbies like pickleball and gardening.
Preparing for New Beginnings
With Hilary still competing as a star forward for the Seattle Torrent, she prepares for her fifth and final Olympics. In contrast, Brittany, the oldest member of the U.S. speedskating team, is set to retire after her own celebrated four-Olympiad career. “In the sports world, I’m like the old lady now,” Brittany offered in her conversation with NBC Olympics. She expressed gratitude for her lengthy and successful journey in sports and looked forward to what life has in store after competition. “I’m excited for what life will look like next,” she shared.
