In a significant announcement, Alex Ovechkin, the captain of the Washington Capitals and the NHL's all-time leading scorer, declared that the current season will be his last in professional hockey. This decision was shared with his teammates in a video posted by the Capitals on Monday, marking a poignant moment in his illustrious career.

Ovechkin, now 41 years old, expressed his deep love for the game, stating, “I love this game so much, but I know in my heart it’s the right decision.” He emphasized his enthusiasm for the upcoming season, stating, “I am excited about this season with my teammates, and we will do everything we can to make this year special.” The veteran forward is determined to savor every moment of his final season, cherishing time with his family, teammates, fans, and everyone who has played a role in his storied hockey journey.

As he embarks on his 22nd NHL season, which began after being drafted first overall by the Capitals in 2004, Ovechkin has solidified his legacy in Washington. Throughout his entire career with the Capitals, he has led the team to remarkable achievements, including winning the Stanley Cup in 2018, a pinnacle of success for any professional athlete.

Alex Ovechkin announced to his teammates this morning that this season will be his final in the NHL https://t.co/wnnnkrIl5U

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) October 5, 2026

Ovechkin made headlines in April 2025 when he broke Wayne Gretzky’s long-standing record for all-time goals in the NHL, scoring his 895th goal against the New York Islanders. As of now, he has amassed a total of 929 career goals, complemented by an additional 77 goals scored during playoff matches. This impressive tally of 1,006 combined goals positions him within striking distance of Gretzky’s combined goals record of 1,016.

In addition to his scoring accolades, Ovechkin boasts an impressive total of 1,688 career regular-season points, ranking him 10th all-time. With his final season underway, he has the potential to surpass iconic players such as Mario Lemieux, who has 1,723 points, and Steve Yzerman with 1,755 points.

The Capitals are gearing up for their home opener this Wednesday, where they are set to face off against their longtime rival, Sidney Crosby, and the Pittsburgh Penguins. This match will not only kick off the new season but also serve as a fitting stage for Ovechkin to begin his farewell tour in the NHL.