Alex Ovechkin has surpassed Wayne Gretzky`s legendary NHL record for career goals. Moments after Ovechkin scored his 895th goal, Gretzky himself was on the ice to congratulate the Washington Capitals star.
Ovechkin achieved the record-breaking goal with his 325th power play goal, celebrating with a slide across the ice. During the subsequent on-ice ceremony at UBS Arena, Gretzky addressed the crowd and personally congratulated Ovechkin.
Gretzky extended his congratulations to Ovechkin`s family, fulfilling a promise to be among the first to congratulate the Capitals captain on this momentous achievement.
In a symbolic gesture, Gretzky wore a Gordie Howe pin while honoring Ovechkin`s accomplishment. Howe, who was present when Gretzky broke his own record of 801 goals, inspired Gretzky to be there for Ovechkin`s historic moment.
`When I broke Gordie Howe`s record, he was there,` Gretzky recalled. `I said a couple of years ago that if Alex got close to my record, I would be here. That`s the spirit of the National Hockey League. … We pass it down. I hope when someone breaks Alex`s record, Alex will be there to shake his hand.`
Reflecting on the future, Gretzky expressed uncertainty about whether anyone will ever surpass Ovechkin`s incredible goal total, which continues to grow as he plays on.
`I can tell you firsthand how incredibly difficult it is to reach 894 goals, so 895 is truly extraordinary,` Gretzky emphasized. `My heartfelt congratulations go to Alex, his parents, his family, his wife and children. … They say records are made to be broken, but I doubt anyone will score more goals than him.`
