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Alex Ovechkin Makes Final Decision on Retirement

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Spencer Garrett Ostrow | Last updated Apr 17, 2025 3:44 PM ET

It’s been nearly two weeks since Alex Ovechkin broke Wayne Gretzky’s all-time NHL goals record. But even before his historic moment against the New York Islanders on April 6, Ovechkin had already cemented his place as one of the greatest players the league has ever seen.

The Washington Capitals star has a long list of accolades—an Art Ross Trophy, nine Rocket Richard Trophies, three Hart Memorial Trophies, three Ted Lindsay Awards, a Stanley Cup, and a Conn Smythe Trophy.

With Ovechkin getting older, many have wondered when he might retire. He's 39 years old but has shown no signs of slowing down. The Russian entered Thursday's regular season finale against the Pittsburgh Penguins with 43 goals and 29 assists on the year.

Just hours before puck drop, Ovechkin spoke to the media and was asked if this would be his final game against Penguins star Sidney Crosby. The two have faced off 97 times in total, with 15 spanning across four playoff series.

Ovechkin kept his answer short and said he isn't done.

"I'm not retiring, so...," he replied.

Ovechkin still has one more season remaining on his current five-year contract, which has a $9.5 million annual average value (AAV). He discussed his situation on Monday's edition of "The Pat McAfee Show."

"Well, I have one more year, and we’ll see what’s gonna happen," Ovechkin said. "I love the team, I love being around the boys, and as long as I can, I will try to stick around and put my great body in the NHL."

Ovechkin and the Capitals will face the Montreal Canadiens in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Monday's Game 1 in Washington is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET on ESPN.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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