Capitals' Alex Ovechkin, 41, announces NHL retirement after this season

Alex Ovechkin told his Washington Capitals teammates this will be his final season in the National Hockey League.

In a video posted by the team on social media, Ovechkin said it was important to his family to let his fellow players know first.

"It's sad, but it is what it is," Ovechkin said in his locker room address. "It's hard, but let's enjoy it and let's do some special things this year."

Ovechkin signed a one-year contract and is playing at age 41 after breaking Wayne Gretzky's career goal-scoring record in April 2025.

Why Alex Ovechkin is the greatest goalscorer who ever lived

"We have an unbelievable team this year," Ovechkin said. "Let's make the playoffs, let's have fun and enjoy the moment because times fly."

Ovechkin entered his 22nd season with 929 goals.

From the #Gr8: https://t.co/KXVdGYUs5j