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Ovechkin Eyes Playing Until 40, Defying Father Time

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, February 22nd 2026 at 23:07 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, RUSSIAN FEDERATION

Washington D.C. - February 23rd, 2026 - Alex Ovechkin, the iconic captain of the Washington Capitals, continues to defy Father Time, announcing in a recent interview with Russian outlet Sport Express his consideration of playing professional hockey until the age of 40. The revelation comes as the 38-year-old (turning 39 this September) remains laser-focused on surpassing Wayne Gretzky's seemingly unbreakable record for most career goals.

Ovechkin, currently in his 20th season with the Capitals, is just 21 goals away from eclipsing Gretzky's legendary total of 894. This pursuit has captivated hockey fans worldwide and become the defining narrative of his remarkable career. While many predicted a potential retirement within the next few seasons, Ovechkin's statement indicates a continued drive and physical well-being that allows him to entertain the possibility of playing for at least two more years, and potentially longer.

"I don't know. I still feel good. I still love to play hockey. I still feel like I can play hockey at a high level," Ovechkin stated. "I don't know what the future holds, but I'd like to play until I'm 40." This isn't the first time Ovechkin has alluded to extending his career, but the firmness of his statement, combined with his continued strong performance, lends significant weight to the possibility.

However, the chase for Gretzky isn't the only factor influencing Ovechkin's decision. The Russian superstar also touched upon his post-hockey aspirations, expressing a strong desire to return to his homeland and prioritize family time. "I want to go back to Russia. I want to be with my family," he explained. "I want to spend time with my wife and children." This adds a layer of complexity to his potential retirement timeline. While he clearly enjoys the game and feels capable of competing at the highest level, family remains a central tenet of his life.

Ovechkin's continued success is a testament to his dedication to physical conditioning and unwavering passion for the sport. He's adapted his game over the years, becoming more than just a purely physical goal-scorer. He still possesses a lethal shot, but he's also demonstrated improved playmaking abilities and a strategic understanding of the game. Maintaining this level of performance into his late 30s - and potentially 40s - is an extraordinary feat, especially in a physically demanding sport like hockey.

His impact on the Washington Capitals franchise is immeasurable. Leading the team to its first Stanley Cup victory in 2018 cemented his legacy as a Capitals icon, and his numerous individual accolades, including multiple Hart Trophies, further solidify his status as one of the greatest players in NHL history. The atmosphere at Capital One Arena is noticeably electric whenever Ovechkin steps onto the ice, a testament to the adoration of the fanbase.

Experts are now analyzing the logistical challenges of playing until 40. Maintaining peak physical condition, avoiding serious injury, and navigating the demands of an 82-game season will be crucial. The Capitals organization will likely play a key role in supporting Ovechkin's ambitions, potentially adjusting his playing time or role to preserve his health and effectiveness. Contract negotiations will also be a significant factor; a team-friendly deal allowing for flexibility will be essential.

If Ovechkin does reach his goal of playing until 40, and continues to score at a reasonable pace, he could potentially rewrite the NHL record books. The pursuit of Gretzky is already a captivating story, but the possibility of a 40-year-old Ovechkin still competing at a high level adds an entirely new dimension to the narrative. Hockey fans around the world will be watching with bated breath to see if "The Great Eight" can defy expectations once again and etch his name even further into hockey lore.