Ever since Olympic gold medalist Jack Hughes found himself trending worldwide, interest in his personal life has skyrocketed. The New Jersey Devils star, who sealed Team USA’s victory at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, is now at the center of dating speculation involving Canadian pop star Tate McRae.

While neither Hughes nor McRae has confirmed a relationship, fans remain convinced something could be going on. Social media detectives have been piecing together clues for months.

Here are five reasons many people believe Jack Hughes and Tate McRae might be dating.

1. They Were Spotted Together in New York City

The rumors first gained traction after the two were reportedly seen spending time together in New York City. Photos and fan posts circulated online, suggesting they were enjoying a casual outing.

In today’s celebrity culture, even a single public appearance can ignite dating speculation — especially when both individuals are high-profile and relatively private about their personal lives.

2. Tate McRae Attended Hughes’ Games

Another major factor fueling the rumors is McRae’s reported attendance at several Devils games. Fans quickly noticed her presence and connected it to Hughes’ return from injury and standout performances.

While attending a game doesn’t automatically signal romance, repeated appearances have led many to believe there may be more than friendship involved.

3. Social Media Hints and Fan Theories

Social media has played a huge role in amplifying the speculation. Posts from fan accounts have analyzed everything from seating arrangements to subtle online interactions.

At one point, Hughes’ older brother Quinn reportedly liked a post referencing the rumored relationship — a detail that only added fuel to the fire. In the world of celebrity gossip, even a single “like” can spark endless debate.

4. The Timing of the Rumors

The dating buzz began shortly after Hughes’ profile skyrocketed following his Olympic heroics. As his fame expanded beyond the NHL audience, so did curiosity about his personal life.

When a rising sports star is linked with an established pop artist, crossover attention is almost inevitable. Fans from both the hockey and music worlds quickly merged into one rumor mill.

5. Neither Has Denied It

Perhaps the biggest reason speculation continues is the silence from both sides.

Neither Hughes nor McRae has publicly addressed or denied the rumors. In celebrity culture, silence often leaves room for interpretation. Some fans see it as privacy; others interpret it as quiet confirmation.

Without a clear statement, theories continue to circulate — and likely will until either party chooses to speak.

So, Are They Actually Dating?

At this point, there is no confirmed evidence that Jack Hughes and Tate McRae are in a relationship. Everything circulating online is based on sightings, social media activity and fan speculation.

Still, the pairing of an Olympic hockey hero and a global pop star makes for a compelling narrative — one that keeps fans watching closely.

Whether it turns out to be romance or simply friendship, the interest surrounding the two shows no signs of fading.

FAQ

Are Jack Hughes and Tate McRae dating?

There is no official confirmation that they are dating.

Why do people think they’re together?

They were spotted together in New York, McRae attended Devils games, and social media interactions sparked speculation.

Has either of them addressed the rumors?

No, neither has publicly confirmed or denied the dating rumors.

Why is there so much interest?

Hughes’ Olympic fame and McRae’s global music career create crossover appeal between sports and entertainment audiences.