Alex Ovechkin, the NHL's all-time leading goalscorer and longtime Washington Capitals captain, announced on Monday that his 22nd season will be his final one, launching a farewell tour.
Key facts
- Ovechkin said his 22nd NHL season will be his last.
- He is the NHL's all-time leading goalscorer.
- He led the Washington Capitals to their first-ever Stanley Cup.
- Ovechkin turned 41 in September.
- He informed teammates before the Capitals shared his message on social media.
Alex Ovechkin, the NHL’s all-time leading goalscorer, said on Monday that his 22nd season in the league will be his last, marking the start of a farewell tour for the longtime Washington Capitals captain.
The Russian star told his teammates of his decision before the Capitals posted a message from him on social media, according to the Guardian.
Ovechkin holds the NHL’s career goalscoring record, cementing his place among the sport’s most accomplished players over more than two decades in the league.
During his time in Washington, Ovechkin led the Capitals to their first-ever Stanley Cup win, a landmark achievement for the franchise.
The announcement comes shortly after Ovechkin turned 41 in September, as he prepares to close out a career that has spanned his entire tenure with the Capitals.
The BBC reported that the National Hockey League’s all-time leading goalscorer confirmed he will retire at the end of the season.
Why it matters
Ovechkin is one of the most decorated players in NHL history, and his departure marks the end of an era for the Washington Capitals and the league. His farewell season will be closely followed by hockey fans tracking the exit of the sport's career goalscoring leader.
Frequently asked questions
When will Alex Ovechkin retire?
Ovechkin said he will retire at the end of his 22nd NHL season, which he announced on Monday will be his last.
What records does Alex Ovechkin hold?
Ovechkin is the NHL's all-time leading goalscorer, holding the league's career goalscoring record.
What did Ovechkin achieve with the Washington Capitals?
As the Capitals' longtime captain, Ovechkin led the team to its first-ever Stanley Cup win.