Capitals' Ovechkin To Retire At End Of 2026-27 NHL Season

The NHL's all-time goals leader has officially announced his farewell tour.

Washington Capitals star Alexander Ovechkin revealed that the 2026-27 season will be the final one of his career, the team announced through a social media post on Monday.

"My family and I decided this summer that this will be my final year in the NHL," Ovechkin wrote in a statement. "I love this game so much, but I know in my hear it's the right decision."

The 41-year-old signed a one-year, $4.25-million contract on July 2 to stick around with the Capitals.

"It was important for me to make this announcement before our first home game, so I have the chance to thank all the people around the game, everyone who has been so important to me and my family and helped me through good times and tough losses," Ovechkin added.

"I wouldn't have been able to achieve everything I have in my life without them."

Ovechkin is in the midst of his 22nd NHL season, and has suited up for all 1,575 games of his career with the Capitals. He joined Sidney Crosby, Gordie Howe, Alex Delvecchio, Stan Mikita and Steve Yzerman as the only players in NHL history to play 22 seasons with one franchise.

There are a handful of major milestones Ovechkin could reach in his final season, headlined by the fact he is just 11 goals shy of passing Wayne Gretzky (1,016) for the most combined goals between the regular season and playoffs in NHL history.

"I am excited about this season with my teammates, and we will do everything we can to make this year special. I am going to enjoy every moment with my family, my boys, our fans and everyone who has been part of my hockey career."

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