Canadian pop sensation Tate McRae and American NHL star Jack Hughes have sparked dating rumors that have fans glued to social media, piecing together clues from multiple sightings and subtle hints.
Inside their mystery romance:
The pair were first reported together in November 2025, spotted sharing a cozy dinner at Anton’s in New York City, according to photos obtained by Deuxmoi. A month later, McRae was seen in the stands during a New Jersey Devils game, cheering on Hughes, further fueling speculation.
© Gregory ShamusSince then, their appearances together have been rare but notable. Observers have seen them walking through New York City, smiling and laughing, and attending public events separately, yet maintaining a discreet connection.
© Phillip Faraone/VF25Despite the buzz, neither McRae nor Hughes has officially confirmed the relationship.
Social media and subtle hints:
Though McRae has remained mostly silent during the Olympics, she may have dropped the most significant hint yet following Hughes’ historic performance.
© Jean CatuffeOn February 22, 2026, Hughes scored the gold-medal-winning goal in overtime against Team Canada, ending a 46-year drought for the U.S. men’s hockey team.
Hours after the dramatic victory in Milan, McRae shared a sun-kissed selfie on Instagram Stories. Tucked into the corner were two telling emojis, a goat, a nod to Hughes’ “Greatest of All Time” achievement, and a pink heart with a blue arrow, often interpreted as a “lovestruck” symbol.
© GettyImagesThe post seemed to quietly celebrate Hughes’ triumph, even as both stars avoided public statements about their relationship. Fans have been quick to scrutinize every gesture, given that McRae, a proud Canadian, had faced minor backlash for appearing in an NBC ad promoting Team USA athletes ahead of the Games.
She later reassured fans on Instagram Stories with a childhood photo holding a small Canadian flag, writing, “…y’all know I’m Canada down.”
Tate McRae's new life chapter:
McRae, 22, has previously navigated high-profile relationships, including a year-long romance with The Kid LAROI, which ended in late 2025.
© The Hapa BlondeShe described the experience to Rolling Stone. “It was really scary and overwhelming. I didn’t realize how much it would affect me, the public knowing my private life — because no one knows the full story of anything, ever.”
Regarding dating in general, McRae admitted she avoids apps, saying, “I’m really bad at flirting. No apps. That stuff literally gives me a heart attack, and thinking about meeting people makes me nauseous.”
© Kevin Mazur/VF25While McRae attended Hughes’ Devils game on December 21, 2025, marking his return after an early November injury, both stars have kept a largely low profile elsewhere. They follow each other on Instagram, but have made no public declarations.
As Hughes returns to North America with a gold medal, fans are left with a tantalizing mix of hints, emojis, and speculation. The world waits to see if McRae and Hughes will step onto a red carpet together.
