Russian National Hockey League (NHL) player Alexander Ovechkin achieved a milestone on Sunday, scoring his 895th goal in his career, surpassing the previous record held by Wayne Gretzky. Ovechkin, a forward for the Washington Capitals, reached the mark in a road game against the New York Islanders, scoring a goal in the second period.
The 39-year-old Russian player, who has never played for a team other than the Capitals, scored against his countryman, goaltender Ilya Sorokin, in a rare instance of Ovechkin facing a Russian opponent. The game was briefly paused to honor the new record holder.
During the impromptu ceremony, Ovechkin thanked his teammates, coaches and fans, emphasizing the team aspect of hockey. “I thank you so much, I love you so much” he said, adding that he wouldn’t be standing there without the support of those around him. He also jokingly thanked Sorokin for allowing him to score a goal.
Ovechkin is a three-time world champion with the Russian national team and won the Stanley Cup with the Washington Capitals in 2018. Gretzky, widely regarded as the greatest hockey player of all time, achieved his 894 goals in 1,487 games. Ovechkin matched him in his 1,486th game. Further information will be provided in the coming days.