Ovechkin Matches Gretzky’s Historic NHL Goals Record with Spectacular Performance

On Friday, Alex Ovechkin netted two goals, equaling Wayne Gretzky’s legendary NHL career record of 894 goals—an achievement that once seemed nearly impossible to reach.

With Gretzky watching from the stands, the 39-year-old Russian scored his 894th goal 6:32 into the third period, giving the Washington Capitals a 4-3 edge against the Chicago Blackhawks in a contest they ultimately won 5-3.

Ovechkin’s historic goal came during a power play, and after scoring, he dropped to one knee and raised his arms in triumph as the crowd at Capital One Arena erupted in cheers.

«I’m certain everyone cherished this moment because it’s truly special,» Ovechkin remarked in a post-game interview. «To accomplish it at home, in front of our fans, family, and friends, while also securing a win here… that’s a significant honor.»

He took a moment to skate over and high-five his son, Sergei, while teammates flooded the ice to offer their congratulations.

«This means a lot,» Ovechkin expressed. «Right now, I’m filled with emotion. You never imagined you could attain such a milestone.

«Without all my teammates, my partners, and you guys,» he said, gesturing towards the fans, «my family, my mother, my wife—you know? Their support has been invaluable.»

Entering the match needing three goals to surpass Gretzky’s iconic total, Ovechkin scored his 893rd goal just 3:52 into the game.

Positioned at the bottom of the right faceoff circle, he one-timed a pass from Dylan Strome past Blackhawks goalie Spencer Knight.

«It was a solid, flat pass from Strome, and I got a bit lucky,» Ovechkin explained in a brief interview during the first intermission. «It hit the post and went in.»

This goal marked Ovechkin’s 14th season with at least 40 goals, extending his own record.

Gretzky’s presence enhanced the electrifying atmosphere at Capital One Arena, with Ovechkin noting after the first period, «Everyone’s excited right now. With Wayne here, it’s a special occasion.»

Fans had been chanting Ovechkin’s name before the game and cheering for him every time he was on the ice.

A collective groan echoed in the first period when a pass intended for Ovechkin was intercepted by a Chicago defender.

Seated in a suite with NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, Gretzky also received applause from the audience.

Trailing 4-3, the Blackhawks decided to pull their goalie, but after Ryan Leonard scored into the empty net, extending the Capitals’ lead to 5-3, Knight returned to his net and faced Ovechkin.

He thwarted two attempts from the Russian superstar seeking the record-breaking goal as the clock wound down, drawing boos from frustrated fans.

Ovechkin’s next opportunity to surpass the record will come on Sunday when the Capitals visit the New York Islanders.

In addition to the milestone, Ovechkin set another record on Friday by recording his 136th game-winning goal, surpassing the previous mark he shared with Jaromir Jagr.