Alex Ovechkin's recent record-breaking goal is celebrated by Putin, reigniting discussions on the player’s controversial support for the regime amid the Ukraine conflict.
Ovechkin's Historic Goal Sparks Controversy Amid Ongoing Conflict
Ovechkin's Historic Goal Sparks Controversy Amid Ongoing Conflict
The hockey star's record-setting achievement calls attention to his political positions and relationship with the Russian government.
In a moment that transcends sports, Russian President Vladimir V. Putin congratulated NHL star Alex Ovechkin for surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s long-standing goal-scoring record. Ovechkin, who proudly plays for the Washington Capitals, netted his 895th goal on April 6, 2025, during a match against the New York Islanders. This achievement, according to Putin, is a “momentous achievement” that brings joy to fans across Russia and the globe.
However, this milestone has reignited scrutiny over Ovechkin’s past endorsements of Putin and his ambiguous stance on the ongoing war in Ukraine. Despite residing in the U.S. for over 20 years, his social media presence remains tied to the Kremlin, notably through the 2017 creation of the hashtag #PutinTeam. During a press conference in 2022, he refrained from condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, instead expressing a wish for peace with the remark, “Please, no more war,” indicating a reluctance to engage in political discourse.
Following his record-breaking game, Ovechkin's exuberance was palpable as he thanked teammates and cheered, “Russia, we did it!” Russian state media celebrated him fervently, branding him as “our pride, a Russian hockey player who made history.” Pro-Kremlin commentators have hailed Ovechkin as an emblem of resilience for Russians facing international ostracism due to the war.
Despite his popularity, Ovechkin’s international competitiveness has waned, as he has not represented Russia in global competitions since 2019. The International Ice Hockey Federation has suspended the Russian national team from all events due to the ramifications of the Ukraine conflict. The war remains a polarizing topic, with Russian athletes feeling pressure to speak out against the conflict, yet Ovechkin continues to navigate the murky waters of sports and politics with his silence and celebrated achievements.
