Tom Wilson dropped the gloves in an Olympic game and earned strong support from his teammates. His Canadian teammates praised him for standing up for them and protecting the bench.
Wilson fought France’s Pierre Crinon with less than seven minutes remaining in the game. Canada controlled play and cruised toward a dominant 10-2 win.
The altercation began after Crinon delivered a hit on Nathan MacKinnon that appeared high. Wilson, who stood on the bench, took notice and confronted the Frenchman moments later on. Fans in attendance saw a rare scene on the Olympic stage, as IIHF tournaments prohibit fighting.
Wilson also played a key role in Canada’s win over France. He scored a goal and added an assist before the fight. The Washington Capitals forward skated on a line with Connor McDavid and Macklin Celebrini.
Team Canada Players React After Tom Wilson’s Olympic Fight
Several Canadian players, including Nathan MacKinnon, highlighted Wilson’s value to the team after he responded to Crinon’s hit.
“[Crinon] obviously didn’t want to fight Tom. He just wanted to wrestle,” MacKinnon told The Associated Press, per ESPN. “I wouldn’t want to fight Tom either.”
Connor McDavid, meanwhile, supported Wilson for standing up for MacKinnon and defending himself.
“We didn’t like the hit, felt like it was late and high,” McDavid told The Associated Press. “[Wilson] just finishes a check and the guy jumps him, and [Wilson is] just protecting himself. That’s all he can do, that’s the type of teammate he is. Nothing but respect for him.”
Veteran defenseman Drew Doughty also backed his teammate despite breaking a longstanding IIHF rule against fighting.
“Obviously, fighting isn’t a big thing in this tournament, but when a guy takes a run at one of our big guys, that’s what Willy does,” Doughty said. “It was great to see him step up.”
Speaking to the NHL’s YouTube channel, Cale Makar highlighted Wilson’s impact beyond the altercation.
“It’s amazing to have a guy like [Wilson] on our side,” Makar said. “That’s why we have a guy like this here. Not to just do that, but to be able to forecheck hard and find different ways to create space his linemates. So, he’s a very effective player and I’m just happy he’s on our team.”
Fans React to Wilson’s Olympic Fight
Fans also shared their reaction to Wilson’s fight during Canada’s 10-2 win over France.
Many credited Wilson for setting a standard for toughness and team loyalty. Others said they were not surprised by the Capitals forward’s involvement in an Olympic fight.
“Oh, of course Tom Wilson is still fighting at the Olympics like, of course [crying laughing emojis].”
“Wow, who would’ve thought Tom Wilson would get a fighting major? I’m so shocked!”
One Canadian supporter praised Wilson, writing:
“Tim Wilson is fighting for our country [heart emoji].”
Another fan noted that Wilson’s performances and sticking up for his teammates will even gain him support from rival fanbases.
“The best thing about the Olympics is every Montreal Canadiens fan loving Tom Wilson.”
Tom Wilson Sparks Wave of Support From Team Canada After Olympic Fight