Wayne Gretzky Proved Why He Is ‘The Great One’ With Honest Take on Alexander Ovechkin in 2021: “Be One of the First Guys to Shake His Hand”

One of the greatest ice hockey athletes, Wayne Gretzky, set several records during his career spanning two decades. Although he is revered in the ice hockey world, every player desires to beat his record. Alexander Ovechkin, a Russian professional ice hockey left winger recently surpassed Gretzky’s record for most career road goals. However, the NHL legend guessed it coming a year before.

In a 2021 AMA (Ask Me Anything) session, Gretzky answered several questions. To a question about Ovi breaking his record, the Great One gave a phenomenal answer proving his true spirit as a sportsman.

Wayne Gretzky was appreciative of Alexander Ovechkin

Gretzky played 20 seasons in the NHL from 1979 to 1999. He always put the sport above himself and strongly believes there’s no player bigger than the game itself. To a question of whether he would be genuinely happy to see Ovi break his record, he said that it’s great for the sport.

Regarding Ovi, he said, “If Alex does break the record, I’ll hopefully be one of the first guys to shake his hand.” Furthermore, he said he was proud of his accomplishments.

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The Russian icon began playing hockey in the Russian Super League at the age of 16. He began his career in NHL in the 2005-2006 season and is now the captain of the Washington Capitals of the National Hockey League (NHL). He is widely regarded for his records for the most power-play goals and most goals with the same team in NHL history.

Ovechkin’s remarks about breaking Gretzky’s record

Washington Capitals star broke a record on 30th November 2022 by rewriting history with his name as the highest scorer of road goals. In his 5-1 win over the Vancouver Canucks, with his 402nd goal, he tied with the Canadian NHL legend. He continued with the 403rd goal, thus breaking the existing record.

“It’s always nice when you beat the Great One,” the 37-year-old Russian sensation said. Furthermore, he expressed pride stating, “It’s history.” Having said that, the game is the 160th multi-goal game of his career, whereas Gretzky retired with 189.

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What do you think about the spirit and talent of Alexander Ovechkin? Can he surpass ‘The Great One’?