The announcement came just one day after Chu earned a silver medal with the women’s hockey team after they lost in heartbreaking fashion to Canada 3-2 in overtime. The three-time silver medalist, who also took home bronze in 2006, was chosen in a vote by fellow United States team members.
“I’m completely humbled and kind of in shock. I never imagined that this would happen, especially knowing how strong the U.S. delegation is,” Chu said in a statement released by the United States Olympic Committee. “Our team has so many inspiring athletes who I’ve gotten a chance to root for. This is special, and I don’t take it lightly. Thank you for this great honor.”
The Connecticut native and Harvard graduate is the second-most-decorated female in Olympic Winter Games history.
Photo via Twitter/@USOlympic