Ovechkin passes Gretzky with record-breaking 895th NHL goal

TDT | Manama

Email : hussianm@newsofbahrain.com

Alex Ovechkin has become the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer, surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s long-standing record with his 895th career goal during Washington Capitals’ 4-1 loss to the New York Islanders.

The 39-year-old Russian fired in his trademark one-timer from the left face-off circle during the second period at UBS Arena, sparking wild celebrations both on the ice and in the stands. His teammates mobbed him as Hall of Famer Gretzky stood applauding in a moment of mutual respect between two legends of the game.

“Without my boys, the whole organisation, and the fans — I would never pass 'The Great One',” said Ovechkin, acknowledging his team and supporters.

Despite the defeat, Capitals fans roared in unison for their captain, who had entered the season needing 42 goals to reach the mark. He made a blistering start before a leg injury in November sidelined him for 16 games. Still, Ovechkin rallied to reach the record with just over a week left in the regular season.

The goal was vintage Ovechkin — a thunderous shot on the power-play from his favoured spot, fittingly securing the milestone in classic style.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman hailed the moment: “He stands alone — an unstoppable force with an other-worldly talent for shooting the puck.”

Ovechkin, who previously led Washington to a first-ever Stanley Cup in 2018, now adds arguably the NHL’s most iconic individual record to a glittering résumé. And with the Capitals heading to the playoffs, the story isn’t finished yet.

“No more questions now,” he joked post-game. “Finally.”