Toronto Maple Leafs superstar Auston Matthews is officially off the market. The face of the franchise and one of the NHL’s biggest names has announced his engagement to longtime girlfriend Emily Ruttledge, sending waves of surprise, excitement, and a little heartbreak across Leafs Nation and the wider hockey world.
Matthews, 27, has been notoriously private about his personal life, but the news broke earlier this week when close friends of the couple confirmed that the proposal took place during a romantic getaway in the spring. According to sources, the engagement was a well-planned, intimate moment—complete with a custom-designed ring and a setting that reflected the couple’s low-key yet elegant style.
Emily Ruttledge, a clinical therapist and research assistant, has been by Matthews’ side for years. The pair reportedly began dating around 2018 after knowing each other through mutual connections in Arizona, Matthews’ home state. While Ruttledge has kept a low profile, she’s been spotted at several Leafs games and team events, always maintaining a quiet but supportive presence.
Fans of Matthews reacted with a mix of celebration and shock on social media. Some were thrilled to see the NHL star take the next step in his personal life, while others jokingly mourned the end of their “dream of marrying Auston.” On Twitter, hashtags like #MatthewsEngaged and #HeartbreakInToronto quickly began trending, showcasing just how invested fans are in the superstar’s life off the ice.
The engagement comes as Matthews continues to lead the Maple Leafs on the ice, both in scoring and leadership. Known for his powerful shot, cool demeanor, and sharp sense of style, Matthews is not just a sports icon in Toronto—he’s a cultural figure. His influence stretches far beyond hockey, making him one of the most recognizable faces in professional sports today.
Rumors of a wedding date have already started circulating. Some sources suggest the ceremony will take place in June 2025, possibly in a private venue in Arizona or California, where both Matthews and Ruttledge have family ties. No official date has been confirmed, but insiders hint that it will be a star-studded yet intimate affair, with close family, friends, and perhaps a few Maple Leafs teammates in attendance.
While fans may be heartbroken to see one of hockey’s most eligible bachelors taken, most are expressing genuine happiness for the couple. “If anyone deserves happiness, it’s Auston. He’s given everything to this city,” one fan posted on Instagram. “Emily’s a lucky woman—and so is he.”
As the Leafs continue to chase Stanley Cup dreams, Matthews now has another big moment to look forward to—one that has nothing to do with goals, assists, or playoff pressure. With wedding bells on the horizon, Auston Matthews is proving he’s scoring big both on and off the ice.
