The outpouring of joy was perhaps even greater given the incredibly tense final that preceded it, as Finland and Switzerland - free-scoring sides throughout the tournament before the gold medals came into view - completely lost their eyes for goal for over 60 minutes.
Prior to the celebrations back home, head coach Antti Pennanen was emotional when speaking to the media. The world title was Finland's fifth, but the first under the stewardship of Pennanen, who waxed lyrical about the importance of his captain, Aleksander Barkov.
The Florida Panthers forward was named in the All-Star team of the tournament, having scored three goals and made eight assists in Zurich, his first major international tournament for a decade. But it was more than "Sasha's" contributions in front of goal that impressed Pennanen.
"I've had good support all along. I want to thank the players for their support. Above all, the captain, Sasha has been absolutely amazing. Now I understand why it's good to be on his teams and why his team is successful. It's incredible great."
"Sasha's arrival also brought confidence to the whole team - that's one of the most significant things. His is a good team to be on. He’s not mean, he’s not difficult. He doesn’t blame or put other people in a difficult situation, not after mistakes or anything. He treats everyone well." Pennanen said of the 30-year-old.
Ever modest, Barkov was quick to play down his importance after the coach's words, and instead focused on the team: "No! I don't believe it!"
"This is a team game. Every single player and every single staff member of this group is important. That's why Finland has been successful, because we have recognised that and everyone is working hard for it."
The winning goal in the final, more than 10 minutes into overtime, was struck by 20-year-old Konsta Helenius of the Buffalo Sabres - a special moment in the young career of a star in the making, albeit one that made his mother faint in the stands!
"Absolutely amazing! A truly special guy on and off the ice. I'm really happy I got to spend a week with him. That’s exactly what we needed." Barkov said of the man who won the game.
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