Leonardo Genoni: Switzerland’s Unknown Olympic Star
If you’ve been watching the 2026 Winter Olympics, you might have noticed something impressive: Switzerland’s goalie, Leonardo Genoni. At 38, he’s been stealing the spotlight in a way few expected, especially for someone who’s never played in the NHL. And honestly, maybe that’s part of the story. He’s built a career in Switzerland, stayed close to home, and quietly became one of the best goalies in Olympic history.
Genoni Has Been Brilliant for Team Switzerland.
Genoni has been nothing short of brilliant so far. Through the preliminary rounds, he’s been a wall in net, sporting a .949 save percentage and saving about 2.5 goals more than expected. He had that flawless 4-0 shutout against France and then followed it up with a clutch performance against Czechia, stopping 29 of 32 shots in overtime to give Switzerland a 4-3 win. At this pace, he’s going to be the guy in the big moments, including a qualification showdown against Italy. He shut out the Italians to push his team forward.
What’s really cool for fans outside Europe is how Genoni’s story reminds us there’s incredible hockey talent beyond the NHL. He’s undersized for a goalie by North American standards, which might be why he never crossed the pond, but his skill level has been undeniable for years. He’s racked up honours in the Swiss National League, and now he’s proving on the Olympic stage that he can carry a team under pressure. It’s a neat reminder that you don’t have to be in the NHL to be world-class—or to be someone who makes you sit up and take notice.
Switzerland Is Going to Need Genoni at His Best to Continue.
Looking ahead, Switzerland will need him to keep rolling, especially when they face teams like Finland or other heavyweights. And if he keeps this up, it’s hard to argue he won’t go down as one of the top goalies in Olympic history. What’s even better is how he’s inspiring young players everywhere, showing that a path doesn’t have to go through North America to be meaningful. Talent, determination, and the right opportunities—Genoni has all three, and he’s making the world take notice.
For anyone tracking the tournament, keep an eye on him. He’s the kind of story that doesn’t make the headlines until you realize he’s quietly carrying his team, one game at a time. And at 38, in a world obsessed with youth, that’s just plain impressive.