On Friday, Alex Ovechkin, captain of the Washington Capitals, was honored by his former team, Dynamo Moscow, at VTB Arena. The event recognized Ovechkin for breaking the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/hockey/nhl/”>NHL’s all-time goal scoring record, a milestone that has made headlines across hockey. This tribute celebrated Ovechkin NHL goal record achievements, acknowledging his impact on the sport both in Russia and internationally.
Tribute Highlights Featured Banner and Special Gifts
During the ceremony, Dynamo Moscow raised a commemorative banner into the arena rafters featuring Ovechkin’s image in his Capitals uniform, his signature, and the number 895 to signify the goals he scored to break the mark. Ovechkin wore a custom No. 8 Dynamo jersey adorned with the captain’s “C,” and was presented with a golden hockey stick in honor of his record-breaking accomplishment.
Ovechkin Surpassed Wayne Gretzky’s Long-Standing Record
The 39-year-old winger set the new NHL goals record on April 6 when he scored his 895th goal against the New York Islanders, surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s legendary total. Currently holding 897 goals as the 2025-26 NHL season approaches, Ovechkin is poised to become the first player in league history to reach 900 career goals, a milestone that could further cement his legacy as one of the game’s greatest scorers.
Family and Team Join the Celebration at Dynamo Stadium
The event was attended by Ovechkin’s family, his former and current teammates, and many fans. Among those present were his wife Nastya Ovechkin, his sons Sergei and Ilya, his mother Tatyana Ovechkina, and his father-in-law Kirill Shubsky. Reflecting on the occasion, Tatyana Ovechkina expressed pride and joy:
“It is very honorable and pleasant that Sasha was so well honored at the Dynamo stadium. There were so many fans, and they all love Sasha so much. Sasha was happy. He started here; this is his home. He is very proud to be a Dynamo player.” —Tatyana Ovechkina, Mother
Ovechkin’s Role in Distributing Medals at Dynamo Event
The tribute was part of a larger occasion called “Dynamo at the Start,” during which Ovechkin also handed out bronze medals to Dynamo Moscow players who reached the Gagarin Cup Playoffs semifinals last season. This gesture showcased Ovechkin’s ongoing connection with his Russian roots and his commitment to supporting his former team.
Strong Foundations Built in Moscow Hockey
Before becoming an NHL superstar, Ovechkin developed his skills with Dynamo Moscow’s youth teams and played professionally for Dynamo during NHL lockouts. He spent time with the club in the 2004-05 and again in the 2012-13 seasons, strengthening his ties to Russian hockey and the Dynamo organization that nurtured his early career.
Upcoming Return to the Capitals and Continued Russian Appearances
Ovechkin is set to return to Washington, D.C., this fall to join the Capitals for their training camp, preparing for another NHL season. Before heading back, he will participate in Pavel Datsyuk’s “Magic Game” event in Yekaterinburg on August 30, an appearance that highlights Ovechkin’s ongoing engagement with the Russian hockey community.