Auston Matthews' girlfriend Vanessa Piunno was seen at the U.S Open alongside the Maple Leafs captain, as fans noticed her wearing a specific piece of jewelry.
Matthews and Piunno's relationship has been in the public for the last few months now, as the two took their relationship public in an Instagram post by Piunno, where she and Matthews posed together after he had won the 2026 gold medal for Team USA.
It's certainly not the story that has dominated the headlines, and with how much has changed wit the Maple Leafs and with Matthews in general, their relationship obviously took a backseat - and being fairly reserved and private people - that was alright with them.
Fans spot a potential engagement ring on Auston Matthews' girlfriend Vanessa Piunno
Though eagle-eyed fans are now bringing their relationship back into the spotlight. Matthews and Piunno decided to take in some tennis during the U.S. Open, as the captain looks to have a little R&R before focusing on the season ahead.
But it wasn't what Matthews did, or said, or even wore. Instead, fans pointed to the brand new ring placed on Piunno's left ring finger:
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Now, there is absolutely no confirmation that Matthews or Piunno are engaged, and this is simply fan speculation regarding their relationship. But a picture is worth a thousand words, and it's pretty obvious that the ring isn't a typical gold band, or other gemstone - it's presumably a fairly sizeable diamond from the looks of it.
Matthews may be thinking of wedding bells, but he's more focused on 2026-27
Again, while there is no confirmation, if this is going to be something that evolves further, then it's more than likely we are going to see and hear more information, even if things are kept under wraps for the most part.
That's a great life goal for Matthews and Piunno, but for the former - he can't get too caught up in the potential nuptials. With this season arguably one of the most important in his career, Matthews has to show that there are going to be no outside distractions as he aims to improve over his last two seasons.
After dealing with several injuries and being misused by Craig Berube offensively, Matthews suffered two of his worst seasons, while also failing to show that dominance he once had. But after surgery, recovery, and a renewed focus on his health, he's at least showing signs he can return to his previous form.
If Matthews can end up regaining his old ways, showing that his injuries are behind him and can showcase that rapid release that made him the deadliest scorer in the NHL - then he's going to rebound in a massive way, where he can then focus on his life outside the rink.
Do you think Auston Matthews and Vanessa Piunno are engaged?
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