Alex Ovechkin told teammates in Arlington on Monday that the 2026‑27 campaign will be his 22nd and final season in the league. He posted the same message on social media, marking the announcement exactly 21 years after his debut with the Washington Capitals.

The Russian star turned 41 on September 17 and had signed a one‑year contract this past summer. In April 2025 he surpassed Wayne Gretzky’s career goals record, entering the 2026‑27 season with 929 goals, the most ever scored in the NHL.

Ovechkin said he wants to stay healthy enough to play hockey, soccer or basketball with his children, and that his family agreed the timing was right.

He added that after the season he plans to return to Russia to live with his family, ending a career that began when he was drafted first overall in 2004 and included three MVP awards, a Stanley Cup and the league’s scoring crown.

His decision shows how age, health concerns and family goals can outweigh even record‑breaking success when an athlete decides to retire.