Alexander Ovechkin facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Alexander Ovechkin
Ovechkin with the Washington Capitals in May 2018
Born	(1985-09-17) 17 September 1985 (age 39) Moscow, Russian SFSR, Soviet Union
Height	6 ft 3 in (191 cm)
Weight	238 lb (108 kg; 17 st 0 lb)
Position	Left wing
Shoots	Right
NHL team Former teams	Washington Capitals Dynamo Moscow
National team	Russia
NHL Draft	1st overall, 2004 Washington Capitals
Playing career	2001–present

Alexander Mikhailovich Ovechkin (Russian: Алексaндр Михайлович Овечкин; born 17 September 1985) is a Russian professional ice hockey player. He is a left winger and captain for the Washington Capitals in the National Hockey League (NHL).

People often call him "The Great 8" because of his jersey number, or simply "Ovi". Many consider him one of the best hockey players ever. He holds the record for the most career goals in NHL history with 895. He also has records for most power play goals, goals in away games, overtime goals, and game-winning goals. He has scored against the most unique goalies and scored the most goals for one team in NHL history.

Ovechkin started his professional career with Dynamo Moscow in Russia in 2001. He played there for four seasons. The Washington Capitals picked him first overall in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. In his first NHL season (2005–06), he scored 52 goals and 54 assists. He won the Calder Memorial Trophy as the best rookie.

Ovechkin has won the Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy (for the NHL's top goal scorer) a record nine times. He has scored 40 goals in thirteen seasons, which is an NHL record. He is tied with Mike Bossy and Wayne Gretzky for the most 50-goal seasons, with nine. He is also the only player to score 200 or more goals in three different decades. He has won the Hart Memorial Trophy (for the league's most valuable player) three times. In 2018, Ovechkin led the Capitals to their first Stanley Cup championship. He also won the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player in the playoffs.

Ovechkin has played for Russia in many international tournaments. He won a gold medal at the World Junior Championship in 2003. He has also won the World Championship three times with Russia.

Early Life and Hockey Dreams

Alexander Ovechkin was born in Moscow, Russia, on 17 September 1985. His parents were both famous athletes. His mom, Tatyana Ovechkina, won two Olympic gold medals in basketball. His dad, Mikhail, was a professional soccer player.

Alexander started playing with a hockey stick when he was just two years old. Whenever hockey was on TV, he would stop everything to watch. His mother knew he was meant for "sporting greatness" because he was so active and curious from a young age.

When he was a child, his older brother Sergei helped him get to hockey practices. Sadly, when Alexander was 10, Sergei passed away after a car accident. Alexander played in a youth hockey game the next day, as his parents wanted him to. He often kisses his glove and points to the sky after scoring a goal to honor his brother.

Ovechkin quickly became known for his amazing skills. At age 11, he scored 56 goals, breaking a record set by another famous player, Pavel Bure. Alexander always dreamed of playing in the NHL. He collected cards of his favorite players, especially his idol, Mario Lemieux.

Playing Career Highlights

Starting Strong with Dynamo Moscow (2001–2005)

Ovechkin began his professional career at 16 with Dynamo Moscow in the Russian Superleague. He played there for three seasons before being drafted into the NHL. He scored 36 goals and 32 assists in 152 games.

The Washington Capitals chose Ovechkin as the first overall pick in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. Many people thought he would be the top pick for years. Because of an NHL player lockout, Ovechkin stayed with Dynamo for one more season. He helped Dynamo win the Russian Superleague title in 2005.

Joining the Washington Capitals (2005–Present)

Early Dominance (2005–2007)

Ovechkin in September 2005 at the Washington Capitals training camp prior to the 2005–06 season.

Ovechkin played his first game for the Capitals on 5 October 2005. He scored two goals in a 3–2 win. On 13 January 2006, he scored his first career hat trick. A few days later, he scored a goal that many called "one of the greatest goals of all time." He was on his back, sliding away from the net, but still managed to put the puck in. This goal became known as "The Goal."

Ovechkin finished his first NHL season (2005–06) leading all rookies in goals, points, and shots. He was third overall in the NHL with 106 points (52 goals, 54 assists). He won the Calder Memorial Trophy as the league's best rookie. He was also named to the NHL first All-Star team, a rare honor for a rookie.

In his second season (2006–07), Ovechkin played in his first NHL All-Star Game. He ended the season with 46 goals, 46 assists, and 92 points.

Becoming a Star and Captain (2007–2013)

On 10 January 2008, Ovechkin signed a huge 13-year contract with the Capitals. It was the richest contract in NHL history at the time. He scored his 100th NHL goal on 12 October 2007.

In the 2007–08 season, Ovechkin scored 65 goals, becoming the first NHL player to score 60 goals in a season since 1996. He broke the Capitals' team record for goals in a single season. He also set a new record for most goals by a left winger in one season with 65.

Ovechkin led the league in scoring with 65 goals and 112 points. He won both the Art Ross Trophy (for most points) and the Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy (for most goals). He helped the Capitals return to the playoffs. After the season, he won the Lester B. Pearson Award (best player voted by players) and the Hart Memorial Trophy (league MVP). He was the first player to win four major awards in one season.

Ovechkin, during the 2009 Stanley Cup playoffs. He recorded his first playoff hat trick that year.

On 5 February 2009, Ovechkin scored his 200th goal, becoming one of only four players to reach this milestone in four seasons. He finished the 2008–09 season with 56 goals, winning his second straight Rocket Richard Trophy. He also won the Hart and Pearson trophies for the second year in a row.

Ovechkin in January 2010. He was named the captain of the Capitals on 5 January 2010

On 5 January 2010, Ovechkin was named captain of the Washington Capitals. He was the first European captain for the team. On 5 February, he reached 500 career points in just 373 games, making him one of the fastest players to do so. He won the Ted Lindsay Award (formerly Pearson Award) for the third year in a row.

In 2011, Ovechkin and the Capitals played in the 2011 NHL Winter Classic, an outdoor game. On 8 March 2011, he recorded his 600th career point. On 5 April, he scored his 300th career goal, becoming one of the youngest and fastest players to reach that mark.

During the NHL lockout in 2012, Ovechkin played for Dynamo Moscow in the KHL. His team won the Gagarin Cup. When the NHL season restarted in 2013, Ovechkin led the league with 32 goals, earning his third Rocket Richard Trophy. He also won his third Hart Memorial Trophy.

Winning the Stanley Cup (2013–2019)

On 20 December 2013, Ovechkin scored his 400th career goal. He was the sixth-fastest player to reach this milestone. In the 2013–14 season, he won his fourth Rocket Richard Trophy with 51 goals.

On 4 November 2014, Ovechkin set a new franchise record for points with 826, passing Peter Bondra. On 31 March 2015, he scored his 50th goal of the year, becoming the sixth player in NHL history to have six 50-goal seasons. He finished the 2014–15 season with 53 goals, winning his fifth Rocket Richard Trophy.

Ovechkin at a Capitals practice in October 2015. During the 2015–16 season, he became the first Russian player to reach the 500-goal plateau in the NHL.

On 10 January 2016, Ovechkin scored his 500th and 501st goals. He was the 43rd player to reach 500 goals and the first Russian player to do so. He was also the fifth-fastest player to reach 500 goals. On 9 April, he scored his 50th goal of the season, becoming only the third player in NHL history to have seven or more 50-goal seasons. He won his sixth Rocket Richard Trophy.

On 11 January 2017, Ovechkin scored his 1,000th career point. He was the 37th player in NHL history to reach 1,000 points with only one team.

Ovechkin had an amazing 2017–18 season. He became the first player in 100 years to start a season with back-to-back hat tricks. On 12 March 2018, he scored his 600th career goal, becoming the 20th player to do so. On 1 April, he played his 1,000th regular season NHL game, the first Capitals player to do so. He won his seventh Rocket Richard Trophy with 49 goals.

Ovechkin with the Stanley Cup in June 2018 at the Capitals championship parade following the 2018 Stanley Cup Finals

In the 2018 playoffs, Ovechkin led the Capitals to their first-ever Stanley Cup championship. He scored 15 goals and 12 assists in 24 games. The Capitals defeated the Vegas Golden Knights in five games in the finals. Ovechkin won the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player in the playoffs.

On 6 December 2018, Ovechkin became the fastest player in NHL history to take 5,000 shots on goal. He scored his 21st career hat trick on 11 December, passing Pavel Bure for the most by a Russian-born player. He finished the 2018–19 season with 51 goals, earning his eighth Rocket Richard Trophy.

Chasing History (2019–Present)

On 22 February 2020, Ovechkin scored his 700th career goal, becoming the eighth player in NHL history to reach this milestone. He finished the shortened 2019–20 season with 48 goals, sharing the Rocket Richard Trophy.

On 27 July 2021, Ovechkin signed a new five-year contract with the Capitals. On 31 December, he scored his 275th power play goal, breaking Dave Andreychuk's all-time record. On 15 March 2022, Ovechkin scored his 767th career NHL goal, moving him into third place all-time, passing Jaromír Jágr. On 20 April, he scored his 50th goal of the season for the ninth time in his career, tying Mike Bossy and Wayne Gretzky for the most 50-goal seasons in NHL history. At 36 years old, he became the oldest player to score 50 goals in a season.

On 5 November 2022, Ovechkin scored his 787th goal with the Washington Capitals. This set a new NHL record for most goals with one team, passing Gordie Howe. On 29 November, he passed Gretzky for most road goals with 403. On 13 December, Ovechkin scored a hat trick to reach 800 regular season goals, becoming the third player in NHL history to do so. On 23 December, he scored his 801st and 802nd goals, passing Gordie Howe for second most goals in NHL history, behind only Wayne Gretzky.

On 21 March 2023, Ovechkin secured his 13th 40-goal season, passing Gretzky for a new NHL record. On 7 December 2023, he recorded his 1,500th point, becoming the 16th player in NHL history to reach this mark. On 10 February 2024, Ovechkin scored his 57th career empty-net goal, passing Wayne Gretzky for the most all-time. On 9 April, he scored his 30th goal of the season for his 18th 30-goal campaign, passing Mike Gartner for the most 30-goal seasons in NHL history.

On 15 October 2024, Ovechkin recorded his 700th career assist. On 11 January 2025, he became the second player in NHL history to record 20 consecutive 20-goal seasons, after Gordie Howe. On 16 January, Ovechkin scored against his 179th different goaltender, passing Jaromir Jagr for most goalies scored on in NHL history.

Player Profile: The Great 8

Ovechkin takes a shot during warm-ups before a game in March 2011

Ovechkin waits for the pass for a one-timer from the inside of the faceoff circle during a game in March 2016

Ovechkin shoots from the inside of the faceoff circle during a February 2022 game. Ovechkin is known for his scoring in the left faceoff circle of the opponents zone

Ovechkin is known as a special talent and the greatest goal scorer in NHL history. He was the only player thought to have a real chance of passing Wayne Gretzky's record of 894 career goals, which he did in April 2025. Gretzky himself said he was cheering for Ovechkin to break his record!

He is famous for his powerful one-timer shot, which he usually takes from the left faceoff circle. This area is often called his "office" because he scores so many goals from there. Other players have said his shots are unique because they "dip, dive, rise, and sink."

Ovechkin is also known for being a strong power forward. He uses his skill and his physical strength. He won the Hart Memorial Trophy three times as the league's most valuable player. His most famous nickname is "The Great 8."

While he's known for scoring, Ovechkin is also a good passer. He can set up goals for his teammates. His coaches and teammates have praised his playmaking skills. He is also known for showing respect to other players, especially when they overcome challenges.

Ovechkin is a very durable player, meaning he rarely misses games due to injuries or sickness. He once famously said, "I'm okay; Russian machine never breaks."

He is also known for his exciting goal celebrations. Sometimes, he would jump into the boards or pretend his stick was "hot" after scoring.

International Play for Russia

Ovechkin at the 2010 Winter Olympics
Medal record
Ice hockey
Representing  Russia
World Championships
Gold	2008 Canada
Gold	2012 Finland/Sweden
Gold	2014 Belarus
Silver	2010 Germany
Silver	2015 Czech Republic
Bronze	2005 Austria
Bronze	2007 Russia
Bronze	2016 Russia
Bronze	2019 Slovakia
World Junior Championships
Gold	2003 Canada
Silver	2005 United States
World U18 Championships
Silver	2002 Slovakia
Bronze	2003 Russia

At 16, Ovechkin played in the 2002 World U-17 Hockey Challenge, scoring two hat tricks. At 17, he became the youngest player to play and score for the Russian national team. He helped Russia win a gold medal at the World Junior Championships in 2003.

Ovechkin played in his first Winter Olympic Games in 2006. He scored five goals, including the game-winner against Canada. He was the only player not from the gold or silver medal teams to be named to the all-tournament team.

Ovechkin with the Russian national men's ice hockey team skates the puck forward during the 2010 Winter Olympics

At the 2008 IIHF World Championships, Ovechkin helped Russia win the gold medal. He was selected to the Media All-Star team. He also won gold medals with Russia at the World Championships in 2012 and 2014.

Ovechkin played for Russia in the Winter Olympics in 2006, 2010, and 2014. He has represented Russia in 13 World Championships and three Olympics in his career.

Off the Ice and Giving Back

Ovechkin has been featured on the covers of popular hockey video games like NHL 07, NHL 2K10, and NHL 21. He even had his own line of designer clothes. In 2009, he was named an ambassador for the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.

He is a big car fan and has owned many cool cars. At the 2015 NHL All-Star Game, he jokingly asked for a new car from Honda. When he got one, he donated it to the American Special Hockey Association. This charity helps people with disabilities play ice hockey.

Ovechkin and United States President Donald Trump at a White House ceremony celebrating the Capitals' Stanley Cup championship, March 2019

After winning the Stanley Cup in 2018, Ovechkin was part of many fun celebrations. He and his teammates famously swam in fountains with the Cup! The summer after their win was called "The Summer of Ovi" by the media.

Ovechkin created a program called Ovi's Crazy 8's. Through this program, he buys and donates eight Capitals season tickets to a charity called Most Valuable Kids. This allows fans who might not otherwise get to go to games to see them for free. Since 2014, he has been an ambassador for the American Special Hockey Association, helping more people enjoy hockey.

Ovechkin loves soccer and supports Liverpool F.C.. He even signed a one-game contract with FC Dynamo Moscow, the club his father played for, and scored a goal!

Supporting His Country

Ovechkin has a good relationship with people from both Russia and America. In 2017, he started a movement called PutinTeam to show support for Russian President Vladimir Putin. Ovechkin said his actions were about supporting his home country, where his family and friends live. He believes it's normal for people to support their country's leader.

Ovechkin with Vladimir Putin during an award ceremony for the Russian national ice hockey team at the Grand Kremlin Palace, May 2014

Ovechkin has a personal connection with Putin, who is a big hockey fan. They talk about hockey, and Putin even gave Ovechkin a gift at his wedding.

Personal Life

Alexander Ovechkin is married to Nastya Shubskaya, the daughter of a Russian actress. They got married in 2015. They have two sons. Their first son is named after Ovechkin's late brother, Sergei.

Ovechkin has also been studying for a high-level degree in Pedagogical Sciences, which is like a PhD in education.

Alexander Ovechkin Quotes

• "Time move forward, and time move quick. So you just have to enjoy every second, every moment."
• "Of course in a game you have to be serious, but still, you have to have fun."
• "I like running all the time. When I run, I feel much better."
• "It means a lot to represent your country."

Interesting Facts About Alexander Ovechkin

• Alexander’s mother was an Olympic basketball gold medalist.
• His father played high-level soccer.
• Alexander’s brother, Sergei, who introduced him to hockey, passed away when Alexander was ten. Alexander broke a hockey goalpost in half when taking a shot when he was the same age.
• His nickname is Alexander the GR8 (Great).
• Alexander says “no problem” a lot.
• He has been on two video game covers.
• In an ESPN commercial, he pretended to be a Russian spy.

Career Statistics

Bold indicates led league

International Play Statistics

Awards and Achievements

Ovechkin hoisting the Stanley Cup at Nationals Park in June 2018 following the Capitals' victory in the 2018 Stanley Cup Finals.

• Order of Honour
• Asteroid 257261 Ovechkin was named in his honor.
• Ride of Fame honored Alex Ovechkin with a double-decker sightseeing bus in Washington, D.C.
• He received the key to the city from Washington Mayor Adrian M. Fenty in 2008.

NHL Records

• Most goals scored in a career (895)
• Most goals scored by a left wing in a career (895)
• Most goals by a left winger in a single season (65)
• Most points scored by a left wing rookie (106)
• Most career points by a left winger (1615)
• Most career shots on goal (6757)
• Most career game-winning goals (136)
• Most overtime goals career (27)
• Most career power-play goals (325)
• Most goaltenders scored on (183)
• Most career 30-goal seasons (18)
• Most career 40-goal seasons (14)
• Most career 50-goal seasons (9) – Tied with Wayne Gretzky and Mike Bossy
• Most consecutive 30 goal seasons (15) – Tied with Jaromir Jagr
• First player to win the Art Ross Trophy, Maurice Richard Trophy, Lester B. Pearson Award, and Hart Memorial Trophy in a single season.
• Only player to be named to the NHL first All-Star team in each of his first five seasons
• Most goals for a single team – 895
• Most goals scored on the road in a career – 411
• Most shots on goal by a left wing in a season – 528 (2008–09)
• Most shots on goal by a rookie in a season – 425 (2005–06)
• Most regular season points by a Russian-born NHL rookie – 106 (2005–06)
• Only player to be named to both the NHL First and second All-Star teams in the same season (2012–13)
• Most goals scoring titles (9)
• Most goals by a Russian-born player – 895
• Most points by a Russian-born player – 1,615
• Most career empty net goals - (61)
• Most career game-opening goals – 136

Washington Capitals Records

• Most seasons with 50 or more goals – 9
• Most shots on goal in a season – 528 (2008–09)
• Most goals in a season – 65 goals (2007–08)
• Most power play goals – 312
• Most power play goals in a season – 25 goals (2014–15)
• Most career penalty shots attempted – 12
• Most goals in a season by a rookie – 52 goals (2005–06)
• Most points in a season by a rookie – 106 points (2005–06)
• Point streak by a rookie – 11 games (17 points; 5 goals, 12 assists; 18 March–7 April 2006)
• Point streak by a rookie to start the season – 8 games
• Goal streak by a rookie – 7 games (10 February–8 March 2006)
• Most career hat tricks – 31
• Most career goals – 895+
• Most career points – 1,550
• Most goals in a single postseason – 15 (2017–18)
• Fastest overtime goal (6 Seconds)

See Also

In Spanish: Aleksandr Ovechkin para niños

• List of NHL players with 50-goal seasons
• List of NHL players with 500 goals
• List of NHL players with 100-point seasons
• List of NHL players with 1,000 games played
• List of NHL players with 1,000 points

Images for kids

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  Ovechkin celebrates with teammate Alexander Semin in January 2007.

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  Ovechkin meeting U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry in the Capitals locker room, 6 February 2014

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  Ovechkin waits for the pass for a one-timer from the inside of the faceoff circle during a game in March 2016

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  Ovechkin shoots from the inside of the faceoff circle during a February 2022 game. Ovechkin is known for his scoring in the left faceoff circle of the opponents zone