Wayne Gretzky's record isn't enough — Alex Ovechkin hints at playing beyond expectations
As the
NHL
gears up for the 2025–26 campaign, all eyes remain fixed on Alex Ovechkin, the Washington Capitals legend who made history by surpassing Wayne Gretzky's all-time goals record. At 40 years old, Ovechkin now holds the crown as the league's greatest goal scorer, and fans are wondering — will this be his final lap?
Capitals legend Alex Ovechkin teases NHL fans with cryptic update on his retirement timeline
Last season was nothing short of monumental.
The Russian superstar netted an astonishing 44 goals, proving he still has that lethal scoring touch. But despite the milestone and whispers of retirement growing louder, Ovechkin isn't ready to close the door — at least, not yet.
'To be honest with you, I haven't thought about it yet, but we'll see what's going to happen,' Ovechkin told reporters following his record-breaking campaign. 'Obviously, I'm going to try to do my best to be able to do well next year and, how I said, we'll see.'
That non-committal response is vintage Ovi — fiercely focused on the present, not distracted by legacy talk or long goodbyes. With the final year of his current contract approaching, speculation about his future has hit a fever pitch. Still, he remains determined to give Capitals fans one more thrilling ride.
After appearing somewhat out of shape last offseason, Ovechkin has returned to the grind. He's back in the gym, sharing clips of his workouts, signaling that he's far from mailing it in.
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The 2025–26 season marks his 21st year in the NHL — a feat in itself — and judging by his commitment, he's looking to finish on his own terms.
For Capitals fans, the good news is that Ovechkin is fully engaged. He may no longer dominate in all aspects of the game like he once did, but when it comes to finding the net, no one does it better — even after two decades.
Every goal this season will not only extend his own record but also solidify a legacy that few in professional sports can match. Whether this is the farewell tour or not, Ovechkin's journey isn't over yet. He's here for at least one more run — and that might be all the fuel he needs to deliver another unforgettable season.
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