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Alex Ovechkin Announces Start of NHL Farewell Retirement Tour

Alex Ovechkin is calling it quits. That is, after the 2026-27 NHL season. Via the Washington Capitals’ official social media account (and on NHL.com), the superstar announced that this season will be his last in the NHL.

Published: Monday, 5 October 2026 at 3:31 PM
Alex Ovechkin Announces Start of NHL Farewell Retirement Tour
Key Things to Know
  • Alex Ovechkin announced that the 2026-27 NHL season will be his last in the league.
  • The announcement was made via the Washington Capitals prior to the first home game of his 22nd season.
  • Ovechkin signed a one-year, $4.25 million contract extension with Washington for the 2026-27 season.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Washington Capitals superstar Alex Ovechkin announced that the 2026-27 NHL season will be his final year in the league. The declaration came ahead of Washington's first home game of Ovechkin's 22nd NHL campaign. In a statement released through the team's official channels, Ovechkin explained that he and his family made the decision during the summer, expressing gratitude to the fans and organization.

Ovechkin signed a one-year, $4.25 million extension for the season following roster additions including Alex Tuch and Jordan Kyrou. He enters his farewell year as the NHL's all-time leading goal scorer after surpassing Wayne Gretzky's record in April 2025. The announcement follows a summer of speculation regarding his future, though it remains unconfirmed if he will completely retire or play in Russia.

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