Alex Ovechkin’s record-breaking 895th NHL goal, which surpassed Wayne Gretzky’s long-standing record, resonated throughout not only the world of hockey but also across the broader sports community.
Wayne Gretzky reflected on the momentous occasion, saying, “It was my honor to hold the National Hockey League goals record for the last three decades. I now am delighted to pass that honor to a man born to excel at putting the puck in the net and who has played our game with extraordinary passion and power. I’m truly thrilled to share this moment with you, Alex, as the new leading goal-scorer in NHL history.”
LeBron James, NBA’s all-time scoring leader, succinctly offered his respect, saying, “Salute to you, brother.”
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman praised Ovechkin’s milestones, describing him as an “unstoppable force” since his 2005 NHL debut. Bettman highlighted Ovechkin as a “unique package” of talent, physicality, and personality, whose passion for victory paralleled his goal-scoring prowess. “Today,” he added, “he stands alone.”
Mark Howe acknowledged the years of Ovechkin’s achievements with admiration, stating, “To reach this milestone and pass Wayne Gretzky, which is something nobody thought possible, truly is special.”
Washington Capitals owner Ted Leonsis celebrated the achievement, acknowledging Ovechkin’s enduring impact on the team and the community: “With 895 goals to Alex’s name, ALL scored wearing a Capitals jersey, the GR8 Chase is officially over.”
Penguins captain Sidney Crosby noted his respect for Ovechkin: “It’s been an honor to compete against you all these years. Your accomplishments reach many milestones, but this seemed the most impossible, and you made it happen.”
Acknowledging his role in Ovechkin’s journey, Tampa Bay Lightning goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy expressed, “I’m glad that I was able to help you break that record along the way.”
Montreal Canadiens coach and Hall of Famer Martin St. Louis simply said, “Just amazing.”
Barry Trotz, former Capitals coach and current Predators GM, admired Ovechkin’s unique journey: “I loved the way that you’ve done it: your way. You’ve done it with style, you’ve done it with passion and you’ve done it with joy.”
Vladislav Tretiak, Soviet Union goaltender and Russian Hockey Federation president, marveled at Ovechkin’s embodiment of greatness: “At one time, Gretzky’s record seemed unreachable. Alexander is the face of our hockey and sports, a person the country is proud of.”
Scotty Bowman, nine-time Stanley Cup-winning coach, lauded the feat: “Alex Ovechkin’s consistency over his 20th season and setting a new record are accomplishments once deemed never possible.”
Viacheslav Fetisov, Hall of Fame defenseman, humorously speculated: “Now this record will stand for 100 years at a minimum.” He congratulated Ovechkin, remarking on the symbolic impact of such achievements in tumultuous times.
Nicklas Lidstrom, Hall of Fame defenseman, remarked on Ovechkin’s consistency into near nonagenarian play: “It’s impressive how Ovi’s been consistently producing at the highest level.”
Steve Yzerman, a Hall of Famer himself, expressed awe: “I’m amazed at how quickly he broke the record. That was one I thought would never be broken, and having 40 goals in the late 30s is phenomenal.”
Patrick Roy, Hall of Fame goaltender, acknowledged the once-unimaginable feat: “When Wayne retired, no one thought any of his records would be touched. Seeing Ovi achieve this in the same number of games is impressive.”