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via Getty
The crowd of spectators, players and team mates applaud as Wayne Gretzky of the New York Rangers waves in salute on his retirement after the National Hockey League (NHL) game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on 18 April 1999 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/https___bluelinestation.com_wp-content_uploads_getty-images_2016_04_771994399.jpeg?width=600)
via Getty
The crowd of spectators, players and team mates applaud as Wayne Gretzky of the New York Rangers waves in salute on his retirement after the National Hockey League (NHL) game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on 18 April 1999 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
In the world of sports, there are certain athletes whose impact extends far beyond their playing days. They are equally loved for their presence off the court as well. Wayne Gretzky, the legendary ice hockey player, is undoubtedly one such athlete. Even after retiring, his influence and connection with fans remain strong.
Gretzky recently took to Instagram to commemorate Canada Day, sharing a heartfelt message alongside a photo of himself sitting next to a maple tree adorned with a nameplate bearing his iconic name. Little did he know that this simple gesture would unleash a flood of appreciation from his adoring fans and some fellow NHL friends.
Wayne Gretzky’s Legacy and Instagram Post
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Gretzky’s Instagram post encapsulated the essence of Canada Day, paying homage to his home country and its rich heritage. In the image, Gretzky can be seen pointing toward his nameplate on the tree with a big smile on his face and a beautiful view of pine trees in the background. The image struck a chord with fans, who were quick to shower the ice hockey legend with love and admiration.
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-634650270.jpg?width=150&blur=15)
via Imago
PEBBLE BEACH, CA – FEBRUARY 10: Wayne Gretzky smiles a fans call out his name on the 11th green during the second round of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am at Spyglass Hill Golf Course on February 10, 2017 in Pebble Beach, California. (Photo by Stan Badz/PGA TOUR)
The shared connection between Gretzky and his fans transcended time as they expressed their unwavering support and appreciation for the enduring impact he has had on Canadian sports and culture. Fans’ love and adoration for Gretzky is evident in the comments on his post.
Fans’ Heartfelt Comments for The Great One
Fans and fellow athletes flocked to express their admiration. Mark Messier, another iconic figure in Canadian ice hockey, referred to Gretzky as the “Athlete of the century!!!,” in the comment section, echoing the sentiments of countless others. Another one of his admirers stated, “Happy Canada Day Wayne. You’re one of our greatest Canadians”.
The comments overflowed with pride and gratitude, celebrating Gretzky as a cherished Canadian treasure, as one fan wrote, “Happy Canada day Wayne..a canadian treasure..” His comment section was flooded with comments like, “Happy Canada day to do Wayne and your family. I think that’s awesome with the license plate. Definitely Canadian”, one of his fans mentioned the tree and stated, “The Canadian maple tree doesn’t get and more then that……Oh and your a beaut as well Cheers my friend!!”
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The mention of “The Great One” and the symbolic license plate evoked nostalgia and served as a reminder of Gretzky’s profound influence on the country’s sporting identity.
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The enduring legacy of Gretzky as a symbol of Canadian pride and athletic excellence is a testimony to his extraordinary career and the profound impact he has made. As fans celebrated Canada Day, they also celebrated the connection they share with the remarkable Wayne Gretzky.
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