Alex Ovechkin surpasses Wayne Gretzky for all-time NHL goals record
Alex Ovechkin surpasses Wayne Gretzky for all-time NHL goals record
On April 6, 2025, hockey history was rewritten as Alexander Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals broke Wayne Gretzky‘s long-standing record for the most career goals in the NHL. Ovechkin’s 895th goal came during the second period of a game against the New York Islanders, propelling him to the top of the all-time scoring list.
Amid cheers and a swan-dive celebration, the Capitals and Islanders paused the game for a ceremony commemorating the landmark achievement. Gretzky, who held the record since his retirement in 1999 with 894 goals, was in attendance and delivered heartfelt words.
“I’m thrilled to pass this honor to a man who was truly born to put the puck in the net,” Gretzky said. “Alex, you’ve played the game with passion, power, and precision, setting a standard for generations to come.”
Ovechkin, visibly moved, addressed the crowd at UBS Arena.
“It’s a team sport,” he said. “This record isn’t just mine; it belongs to my teammates, my coaches, my family, and the fans who’ve supported me every step of the way.”
He also extended a lighthearted apology to Islanders goalie Ilya Sorokin, jokingly thanking him for being part of the history-making moment.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman praised Ovechkin’s incredible career.
“Alex Ovechkin has been an unstoppable force since his rookie season in 2005. His talent, physicality, and relentless drive for greatness are unmatched. Today, he stands alone as the NHL’s greatest goal scorer.”
The ceremony included messages from Ovechkin’s family, tributes from sports legends like Michael Jordan and LeBron James, and a standing ovation from the crowd.
Ovechkin expressed gratitude for the opportunity to surpass a record many believed to be untouchable.
Dubbed “The Great Eight,” Ovechkin’s legacy extends beyond his numbers.
Throughout a stellar career that began in 2005, he’s collected nine Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophies, earned three MVP awards, and led the Capitals to their first Stanley Cup win in 2018.
His record-breaking goal, scored in his 1,487th game, solidifies him as a generational talent who continues to inspire fans and players across the hockey world.
With this historic milestone achieved, Ovechkin’s impact on hockey is undeniable, and his place as one of the sport’s all-time greats is forever cemented.
Alex Ovechkin surpasses Wayne Gretzky for all-time NHL goals record was originally published on 1075thefan.com
