newsweek
Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin has officially announced that he will retire from the NHL following the 2026-27 season. The revelation came on Monday, October 5, just before the Capitals' first home game of the campaign, marking the start of what will be a farewell tour for the legendary forward.
In a post shared on Twitter/X by the Capitals, Ovechkin explained that the decision was made during the summer with his family. "My family and I decided this summer that this will be my final year in the NHL," he wrote. "I love this game so much, but I know in my heart it's the right decision." He added that he wanted to make the announcement before the home opener to properly thank everyone who has been part of his journey. "It was important for me to make this announcement before our first home game, so I have the chance to thank all the people around the game, everyone who has been so important to me and my family and helped me through good times and tough losses. I wouldn't have been able to achieve everything I have in my life without them."
Ovechkin, 41, is the NHL's all-time leader in goals, having surpassed Wayne Gretzky's previous record of 894 in April 2025. He will have opportunities to add to his tally of 929 regular-season goals and 77 playoff goals. His combined total of 1,006 regular-season and postseason goals is just 10 behind Gretzky's NHL record, putting another milestone within reach before his 22-year career concludes.
The Capitals selected Ovechkin with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2004 NHL Draft, and he has spent his entire career with the franchise. Off the ice, he has faced criticism for his support of Russian President Vladimir Putin, including a recent appearance in a campaign ad for Putin's United Russia party ahead of last month's Russian elections. On the ice, however, Ovechkin will retire as one of the greatest all-around talents ever to play the game.
Looking ahead to his final season, Ovechkin expressed excitement about playing with his teammates. "I am excited about this season with my teammates, and we will do everything we can to make this year special," he said via the Capitals. "I am going to enjoy every moment with my family, my boys, our fans and everyone who has been part of my hockey career."
Key Analysis
Ovechkin's retirement announcement signals the end of an era in the NHL. His pursuit of Gretzky's combined goals record will be a major storyline, and his legacy as one of the sport's greatest players is already cemented. The Capitals will undoubtedly aim to send him off with a memorable season, while fans will cherish every moment of his final campaign.
Originally reported by newsweek.