Russian Roots Don’t Stop Alex Ovechkin From Earning the American Recognition Even Wayne Gretzky Never Got

Recall the remarks made by Alex Ovechkin a few years back regarding Wayne Gretzky’s legendary all-time goal record in the NHL? “I don’t think somebody will beat this record. In this hockey right now, in this league, I think it’s impossible. I have to have six seasons with 50 goals. I don’t know if I’m gonna be able to skate in six seasons!” remarked the Russian hockey star. In 2025, he reached this milestone by netting his 895th career goal against the New York Islanders at the UBS Arena.

Numerous celebrations have taken place, yet positive developments for Ovechkin continued to unfold. On April 11, 2025, Washington, D.C., marked a significant occasion with the celebration of “Alex Ovechkin Day,” paying tribute to the iconic hockey figure from Russia. The official Washington Capitals account on X released a statement from Mayor Muriel Bowser, outlining key information that every Washington resident should be aware of regarding Ovi.

Additionally, she proclaimed the significant occasion, saying, “On April 6 in New York, Ovi scored his 895th career NHL goal against the Islanders, surpassing Gretzky to become the all-time leading goal scorer in NHL history, and today at Capital One Arena, we come together as Washingtonians, as hockey fans, and admirers of the Great 8, to celebrate Ovi on this amazing accomplishment and to thank him for being with the Capitals his entire NHL career and being a vital component to what makes us the District of Champions. NOW, THEREFORE, I, THE MAYOR OF WASHINGTON, DC do hereby proclaim April 11, 2025, as ‘ALEX OVECHKIN DAY’ in Washington, DC and do commend this observance to all Washingtonians.”

Every action Ovi takes on the rink has become a powerful statement. His years of unwavering commitment to Washington have finally borne fruit. Individuals like Gretzky have certainly made their mark in the NHL, yet his experiences with American teams such as the Los Angeles Kings, the St. Louis Blues, and the New York Rangers did not mirror the success he found with the Edmonton Oilers, where he clinched four Stanley Cups.

Gretzky may not have been honored with a special day in the US, but did you know he has one in Canada? On October 1, 1999, the City of Edmonton made a formal declaration of “Wayne Gretzky Day” in recognition of the retirement of his legendary No. 99 jersey by the Edmonton Oilers. A significant event unfolded at Edmonton’s City Hall, as around 15,000 fans convened in Winston Churchill Square to honor Gretzky.

At this event, former Mayor Bill Smith declared that every October 1 would henceforth be celebrated as “Wayne Gretzky Day” in Edmonton. The city also revealed plans to rename Capilano Drive to “Wayne Gretzky Drive,” an important intersection adjacent to the Oilers’ home arena. Both Gretzky and Ovechkin have been awarded numerous accolades throughout their careers. Are you familiar with the intriguing narrative surrounding Ovi’s distinctive celebration after scoring his 895th goal?

Alex Ovechkin reveals the story behind his celebration

At the UBS Arena, the Capitals captain showcased an extraordinary celebration after reaching the NHL’s all-time goal record. With a swift pivot, Ovechkin glided across the rink, showcasing his effortless maneuvering on the ice. In a moment of pure exhilaration, he stood up, and immediately, the entire Capitals roster gathered around him, reveling in unbridled happiness. This specific celebration captivated the online world.

In a recent interview with Pat McAfee, the Russian hockey star shared an interesting insight into his celebration, stating, “No, I was so excited, I just felt probably my skate, my trainer Brock probably didn’t sharp my skate before I scored a goal, so that’s why I fell. But yeah, that moment is going to live forever and it’s unbelievable. So yeah, I’m like, you know, how I said, I still can’t believe it’s happening and what we did in New York on there, it’s going to stay forever. So yeah, I’m very happy.”

Brock Myles serves as the head equipment manager for the Capitals, playing an essential role in Alex Ovechkin’s career. The trainer observed the record being shattered, yet it appears he might have overlooked sharpening his skates, as the Caps captain humorously noted. Ovi also expressed his feelings on breaking the record, saying he is still amazed that he managed to do what seemed impossible.