The Pittsburgh Penguins captain releases a classy gesture to one of his most fierce competitors.

One of the best two-way forwards to ever lace a pair of skates is calling it a career and the Pittsburgh Penguins have offered their congratulations.

Following the announcement of his retirement, the Penguins’ captain Sidney Crosby offered congratulations to Patrice Bergeron.

Off of the ice, Crosby and Bergeron are close friends and have represented their native Canada in international play on multiple occasions.

Crosby said in his statement released via the Penguins’ Twitter account that it was a pleasure to not only compete against Bergeron, but sometimes play as teammates.

The duo won gold at the 2014 Winter Olympics and 2016 World Cup of Hockey representing Team Canada.

Bergeron announced his retirement after 19 seasons, 1,294 games, and 1,040 total points for a career.

The future Hall of Famer played some of his best hockey against Crosby and the Penguins; in 59 career games against the Penguins, Bergeron recorded a total of 44 points (16G-28A).

The Penguins and Bruins met in the postseason one time during Bergeron's career, and it was Boston who got the upper-hand with a sweep in the 2013 Eastern Conference Final.

Bergeron is ending his career as a six-time winner of the Frank J. Selke Trophy for best defensive forward in the NHL.

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