Alex Ovechkin announces retirement after 22 NHL seasons

Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin told teammates on Monday that the 2026-27 season will be his final year in the NHL, marking his 22nd season with the club. The 41-year-old announced the decision in a locker-room address that was posted by the team on social media, and said the timing was chosen to allow his family and fans to hear the news before the Capitals’ first home game.

“I love this game so much, but I know in my heart it’s the right decision,” Ovechkin said in a statement released by the team. “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.”

Ovechkin, who led Washington to its only Stanley Cup championship in 2017-18, became the NHL’s all-time leading goal-scorer in April 2025 and currently holds 929 regular-season goals and 759 assists. He also ranks among the top playoff goal-scorers and could move further up the list if the Capitals qualify for the postseason this year.

The player’s off-ice profile has drawn attention for his past support of Russian President Vladimir Putin, including an appearance in a campaign video that was criticized last month. When asked about the conflict in Ukraine, Ovechkin told ESPN that he is not involved in politics and expressed a wish for peace.

The Capitals’ management said they will work to make Ovechkin’s final season memorable for the player, his teammates, and the franchise’s supporters.