TWINS HIT THE MAPLE LEAFS: AUSTON MATTHEWS JOYFULLY ANNOUNCES THE ARRIVAL OF TWINS, TEAM AND FANS CELEBRATE WITH HEARTFELT CHEERS…
By Canadian Ice Chronicle | June 2025
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In a heartwarming and joyous moment that has left fans of both hockey and humanity cheering, Toronto Maple Leafs superstar Auston Matthews has officially announced the arrival of his twins — a boy and a girl — born earlier this week at a Toronto private hospital. The news, shared through an emotional social media post and later confirmed by Maple Leafs officials, has sent a wave of excitement through Leafs Nation, marking a beautiful new chapter in the life of the franchise’s beloved captain.
The 27-year-old NHL MVP and face of the Maple Leafs is known for his tenacity on the ice, his humility off of it, and now, his glowing pride as a new father. The announcement was met with overwhelming love from teammates, fans, and public figures alike — turning a regular June day into one of celebration across the hockey world.
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Auston Matthews’ Heartfelt Announcement
The announcement came on a bright Tuesday morning via Auston’s official Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) accounts, with a simple but touching message:
> “We’re beyond blessed. Welcome to the world, my little warriors — Leo and Mila. You’ve already made our lives feel more complete than we ever thought possible. ❤️ #MatthewsTwins #BlessedDad #LeafsFamily”
Attached to the post was a black-and-white photo of Auston gently holding two tiny newborn hands, his signature “AM” tattoo just barely visible beneath a baby blanket. The caption quickly went viral, amassing over 10 million views and 1.4 million likes in a matter of hours.
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The Mother Behind the Joy: Emily Ruttledge
Matthews has long kept his romantic life private, but it is well known among close circles and fans that he has been in a stable, supportive relationship with Emily Ruttledge, a Toronto-based interior designer and former collegiate athlete. Emily, known for her elegance and quiet presence at home games, has occasionally been spotted sitting beside Matthews’ mother during playoff matches.
A source close to the family revealed that both Emily and the twins are healthy, and Auston was present throughout the delivery, showing “emotional strength, nerves, and overwhelming joy” during the process.
> “He cried when he held them,” the source said. “You could just see it. He wasn’t Auston the NHL star in that moment. He was just a proud dad, completely in love with his new family.”
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Maple Leafs Organization Reacts: “From Captain to Father”
The Maple Leafs didn’t hesitate to join in the celebration. Within hours of the announcement, the franchise released an official statement:
> “On behalf of the Toronto Maple Leafs organization, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Auston and Emily on the birth of their beautiful twins, Leo and Mila. This is a joyous moment not only for Auston’s family but for all of Leafs Nation.”
Head Coach Craig Berube added during a brief media session:
> “We’ve seen Auston lead on the ice, in the locker room, and in the city. Now we get to see him lead as a father. The whole team is thrilled.”
To commemorate the moment, the Leafs organized a private in-house celebration at Scotiabank Arena — complete with custom baby jerseys, a cake featuring the words “Welcome to the Leafs Family, Leo & Mila!”, and a video reel of Auston’s career highlights set to lullaby music.
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Teammates Show Love and Support
Matthews’ closest teammates, many of whom he considers brothers, took to social media and interviews to share their excitement:
Mitch Marner: “Can’t believe my boy’s a dad now. Leo and Mila, get ready — Uncle Mitch is bringing you your first mini sticks!”
William Nylander: “Double trouble! Congrats, Auston. Proud of you, bro.”
Morgan Rielly: “Matthews family just became even more legendary. We’re all so happy for you.”
Auston reportedly FaceTimed several teammates from the hospital room, holding the twins in his arms and sharing laughter and tears.
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Fans and the City Celebrate: A Parade of Blue Love
As expected, Leafs Nation responded in full force. Fans gathered spontaneously at Maple Leaf Square, many bringing handmade signs that read “Congrats Auston!”, “Baby Leafs Are Here!”, and “Leo & Mila: Future Stars in the Making!”.
One fan even held up a baby carrier with a sign that said, “Waiting for my Matthews twins playdate invite!”
Toronto’s CN Tower was lit in blue and white, and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra dedicated an impromptu performance of Brahms’ Lullaby during a community event, tagging Matthews in their Instagram story with the caption: “Welcome, little Leafs.”
Children at several Toronto schools created artwork for the twins, which will reportedly be delivered to Auston and Emily later this week.
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Auston Matthews’ Next Chapter: Balancing the Puck and Parenthood
Matthews, known for his discipline and drive, is said to be embracing fatherhood with the same energy and commitment that he brings to the rink. According to a team trainer, Auston has already requested to adjust his offseason schedule to allow more time at home with the newborns while maintaining peak training standards.
> “It’s a balance he’s committed to mastering,” said the trainer. “And if there’s anyone who can give 110% to both hockey and his kids, it’s Auston.”
Close sources say that Leo and Mila’s nursery is already a Leafs-themed haven, featuring tiny hockey sticks, Stanley Cup mobiles, and soft plush mascots of Carlton the Bear.
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What’s Next: Twin-Inspired Charity and Legacy Plans
In a surprise move, Matthews is also rumored to be launching a “Little Leafs Legacy Foundation” in honor of Leo and Mila. The foundation will focus on:
Providing childcare assistance for single parents in Toronto
Funding for children’s hospitals and neonatal care units
Access to hockey equipment for underprivileged children under age 10
The first fundraiser, titled “Twice the Joy: Matthews’ Night of Giving”, is expected to take place this fall at Scotiabank Arena, with proceeds supporting Toronto’s SickKids Hospital.
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The Hockey World Takes Note
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman personally reached out to Matthews and sent a congratulatory message on behalf of the league. Rival players — including those from the Montreal Canadiens and Boston Bruins — also shared congratulatory tweets, showcasing the deep respect Matthews commands around the league.
Former Leafs stars like Wendel Clark, Doug Gilmour, and Mats Sundin also extended their warm wishes publicly, calling it “a beautiful milestone for the franchise’s modern-day hero.”
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Final Thoughts: Two New Reasons to Believe
Auston Matthews has already achieved superstardom on the ice — from winning the Rocket Richard Trophy to being the cornerstone of Toronto’s resurgence. But the arrival of Leo and Mila Matthews adds a deeper, more intimate legacy to his already storied journey.
He is not just building a future with goals, assists, and face-offs — he’s building a family, and in doing so, has made Leafs Nation feel more connected than ever.
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Congratulations, Auston and Emily. Welcome, Leo and Mila. The Leafs have gained two honorary members — and the world just got a little brighter.
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Stay tuned with Canadian Ice Chronicle for exclusive photos, baby gift auction details, and behind-the-scenes coverage of Matthews’ new life as a proud father.
