Ovechkin Mulls Quiet Retirement Like Gretzky

Capitals captain considering low-key exit from NHL at 40 years old

Apr. 12, 2026 at 5:13am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements and energy of an NHL hockey game, with players and the puck fragmented into overlapping angular shapes and planes.Ovechkin's potential quiet retirement mirrors the humble legacy of his idol, Gretzky, as the NHL prepares to bid farewell to one of its all-time greats.Today in Pittsburgh

As Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin approaches the end of his current NHL contract at age 40, the hockey world is closely watching whether the legendary forward will follow in the footsteps of his idol, Wayne Gretzky, by quietly retiring without a grand farewell tour.

Why it matters

Ovechkin's potential retirement would mark the end of an era for the NHL, as one of the league's all-time greats departs. His decision to potentially emulate Gretzky's understated exit shows a level of humility and respect for the game that is often lacking in modern sports.

The details

Ovechkin has stated he will wait until the end of the 2025-26 season before making a decision on his future. Sources indicate he is not interested in a high-profile retirement tour, preferring instead to follow Gretzky's lead by keeping his exit low-key. At 40 years old, Ovechkin is also mindful of the physical toll the sport has taken on his body over his illustrious career.

  • Ovechkin's current contract with the Washington Capitals expires at the end of the 2025-26 NHL season.
  • Ovechkin will turn 40 years old during the 2025-26 season.

The players

Alex Ovechkin

The 40-year-old captain of the Washington Capitals, considered one of the greatest hockey players of his generation.

Wayne Gretzky

Widely regarded as the greatest hockey player of all time, who retired from the NHL in 1999 without a grand farewell tour.

Washington Capitals

The NHL team that Ovechkin has played for his entire professional career.

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What’s next

The upcoming games against Pittsburgh and Columbus will be particularly intriguing, as they could mark Ovechkin's final appearances in the NHL.

The takeaway

Ovechkin's potential decision to retire quietly, like his idol Wayne Gretzky, showcases a level of humility and respect for the game that is often lacking in modern sports. His departure will mark the end of an era for the NHL, but it also opens up opportunities for the next generation of stars to step up and carry the torch.