Ovechkin Ties Gretzky’s Record With 894 Career Goals in Historic Match

WASHINGTON — Alex Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals made history on Friday night by scoring his 894th career goal, tying NHL legend Wayne Gretzky for the most goals scored in league history during a game against the Chicago Blackhawks.

The milestone goal came in the third period, just as Ovechkin entered the contest needing three goals to surpass Gretzky, who set the record back in 1999. Ovechkin scored twice in the match, which ultimately showcased his exceptional skill and dedication to the sport at the age of 39.

Ovechkin’s first goal was a swift one-timer off a pass from teammate Dylan Strome, achieved less than four minutes into the first period. His second came midway through the game from his renowned power-play position near the left faceoff circle.

Following his historic goals, an emotional Ovechkin celebrated with his teammates, taking a victory lap around the rink as the crowd erupted in applause. Teammate Strome remarked on the significance of the moment, stating, “Every goal seems to get bigger and bigger. It’s so impressive the way he can score. It’s history.”

After the game, the entire Blackhawks team congratulated Ovechkin with fist bumps, while Gretzky himself visited the Capitals’ locker room to extend personal congratulations. “What Wayne and O have done for the game of hockey can never be replicated,” said Capitals forward Tom Wilson. “It’s been an honor of my career to have a front-row seat to watch him.”

Ovechkin’s remarkable performance this season has seen him net 41 goals, placing him among the league leaders, despite having missed a month due to a leg injury incurred during a match in November. This achievement marks his 14th season with 40 or more goals, an unprecedented feat among players aged 35 and older.

The pursuit of Gretzky’s all-time record has captivated the hockey community, further underscored by Gretzky’s attendance at the game. He first achieved the goals record in 1994 when he surpassed Gordie Howe’s long-standing total of 801. Gretzky went on to retire with 894 goals, a figure many considered unreachable until Ovechkin’s uncanny trajectory over two decades.

Reflecting on his experience, Gretzky commented, “When I broke Gordie’s record, my dad told me that same night, ‘You’d be as proud as the guy that breaks your record.’ It’s been a wonderful journey for everyone.” He added, “If someone breaks Alex’s record, I hope Alex is there to shake his hand. But right now, I hope Alex enjoys it. He deserves all the credit and accolades he’s getting.”

As the Capitals gear up for their final six games this season, the spotlight remains firmly fixed on Ovechkin’s pursuit of becoming the sole holder of the all-time goals record. The league’s esteemed player has a contract with Washington that extends through the 2025-26 season, leaving him ample opportunity to continue his historic scoring.