Auston Matthews’ girlfriend goes public days after Olympic gold
· Yahoo Sports
Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews is back focused on the NHL season after leading Team USA men’s national ice hockey team to gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan.
Matthews’ success on the ice now comes with a personal update. Matthews’ new girlfriend, Vanessa Piunno, made their relationship public with a series of Instagram photos from Italy.
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Piunno posted the pictures on Tuesday and wrote, “A month to remember forever.” The post quickly caught the attention of hockey fans. It showed several moments from the Olympic trip that celebrated Matthews’ historic achievement.
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The first photo showed Piunno and Matthews posing together for the camera. She leaned on Matthews while sharing a side hug. Her arms wrapped around him as both smiled during the picture taken in Milan.
Another image captured the arena during the medal ceremony. Matthews had just received his gold medal as captain of Team USA. Piunno also shared a blurry shot that showed the couple celebrating and laughing together.
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Piunno appeared in a Team USA WAG jacket during her time in Milan. The photos highlighted her support throughout the Olympic run. She works as a skincare specialist in Toronto and runs her business, Piunno Beauty. Her company focuses on personalized skincare education and private training sessions.
Before this relationship, Matthews had dated therapist Emily Ruttledge. Details about their breakup remain private because Matthews keeps much of his personal life away from public attention. Piunno’s post marks the first clear public reveal of his new relationship.
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Auston Matthews’ gold win with USA and the struggling Leafs
Auston Matthews of the United States reacts after receiving his gold medal during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-Imagn Images
Matthews helped Team USA capture its first Olympic men’s hockey gold since 1980. The star center recorded three goals and four assists in six games. His play helped the Americans defeat Canada 2-1 in the final.
Speaking to the media after the win, Matthews said it was special.
“It’s so special,” Matthews said about his first Olympic gold. “It’s just a feeling, playing for your country and doing it in this kind of fashion. I mean, I don’t even know what to say. It’s unbelievable. It’s so special. I don’t even know.”
Meanwhile, Matthews’ Leafs have struggled this year with a 27-24-10 record. Still, he leads the offense with 26 goals and 25 assists in 55 games.
Off the ice, his Olympic gold and new relationship have created a moment he will likely remember for years.
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