Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin received a congratulatory message from Russian President Vladimir Putin after breaking Wayne Gretzky’s brand for most goals scored all the time.
Ovechkin was born in Moscow and played for Dynamo Moscow from 2001 to 2005 before joining the NHL and being elected in the draft of the capitals.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin in Moscow, Monday, April 7, 2025. (Vyacheslav Prokofyev, Sputnik, Kremlin -pooloto via AP)
“I congratulate you on your excellent record. You have surpassed legendary masters in the number of goals scored in the National Hockey League season matches,” Putin said in a statement through the Kremlin.
He said that Breaking Gretzky’s record “has not only become your personal success, but also a real party for fans in Russia and abroad.”
“I wish you health, luck (and) fighting spirit to conquer new heights in life and in sports.”
Washington Capitals left Wing Alex Ovechkin celebrating after scoring his 895. Career goals during the Islanders game in Elmont, New York, Sunday 6 April 2025. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
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Ovechkin scored goal # 895 in the second period against New York Islanders. He converted the goal of a powerplay.
“I probably need a few more days or maybe a few weeks to realize what it means to be # 1,” Ovechkin said after the match. “I’m really proud of myself. I’m really proud of my family, for all my teammates who help me reach that milestone and for all my coaches. It’s huge. It’s incredible. It’s an incredible moment and I’m happy.”
He scored at Islanders goalkeeper Ilya Sorokin. It was the 183rd different goalkeeper he scored on during his record -breaking race.
Washington Capitals left Wing Alex Ovechkin being greeted by Wayne Gretzky during a ceremony after scoring his 895. Career goals, Sunday April 6, 2025. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Washington ended up falling to New York, 4-1.
