Yesterday, Alex Ovechkin made history. The Russian forward officially broke Wayne Gretzky’s long-standing record of 894 career goals, scoring his 895th and now holding the title of the NHL’s all-time career goal leader. It’s a huge hockey achievement that many are celebrating as the passing of a torch. But for Canadian fans, this record-breaking moment is tinged with ambiguity—a complex mix of admiration and discomfort.
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On one side, we have Wayne Gretzky, the “Great One.” Gretzky has long been the epitome of grace and humility and a model for success in the game. For decades, Gretzky was not just a legend on the ice but also a symbol of Canadian pride. His temperate and well-spoken persona starkly contrasted with the larger-than-life egos we sometimes see in sports. And yet, recently, Gretzky’s actions have stirred a degree of controversy that leaves some questioning where they should stand on their national Canadian hero.
Gretzky’s Fallout with Team Canada
Just over a month ago, in a The Hockey Writers‘ post, colleague Dayton Reimer shared his thoughts about Gretzky’s actions on behalf of Team Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off. Specifically, Reimer believed Canada should consider moving on from Gretzky as a national hockey hero. He cited Gretzky’s lack of enthusiasm for Canadian patriotism at the 4 Nations Face-Off Final.
Reimer argued that Gretzky’s behaviour, which appeared indifferent and reluctant in his honorary captain role, contrasted with other national figures’ more engaged and supportive actions, like honorary American captain Mike Eruzione. According to Reimer, this shift centers on Gretzky’s reluctance to embrace the moment amid increasing tensions between Canada and the USA. That has left him out of touch with Canadian fans, who might now be ready to embrace a new hockey hero.
Gretzky’s Ties to Donald Trump Have Become Problematic
Since the 4 Nations Face-Off, Gretzky has come under fire for his close association with current U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump, known for his polarizing and divisive rhetoric, has linked himself to Gretzky publicly, calling him his “great Canadian friend.” In addition, a recent CBC article noted that “pictures of Gretzky celebrating Trump’s election night victory at Mar-a-Lago and attending his inauguration don’t sit well at a time Canadians face an existential crisis in the wake of rising tariffs and the U.S. president’s comments about turning its northern neighbour into a 51st state.”
The CBC article added, “Many find it unsettling that Gretzky is silent on the topic, even with Trump suggesting Gretzky run for office for the eventuality of becoming the nation’s governor once it joins the U.S.”
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For many Canadians, this connection is problematic. It’s not just about politics — it’s about Canadian identity. Gretzky, a Canadian legend, has distanced himself from his roots. He has lived in the United States for years. Since his father Walter died in 2021, he’s seldom visited his home in Brantford, Ontario. Despite his ties to Canada, his recent affiliations have left Canadian fans questioning whether his Canadian loyalty remains as strong as it once was.
Then, There Are Ovechkin’s Ties to Vladimir Putin
On the other side of the debate, Canadian fans look at Alex Ovechkin, who has consistently celebrated his ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Ovechkin’s ties to Putin are just as problematic as Gretzky’s ties to Trump. Ovechkin’s relationship with Putin has long been a topic of discussion, mainly because of his outspoken support for the Russian leader, even in the midst of the ongoing war against Ukraine. Hall of Fame goalie Dominik Hasek didn’t hesitate to discuss the topic two days ago.
As one of the greatest hockey players of all time, Ovechkin’s politics, much like Gretzky’s, can’t help but bleed into his public image. His support for Putin creates a similar dilemma for fans, especially in Canada, where the war and Russia’s actions have sparked widespread condemnation. For Canadian fans, Ovechkin’s success — a moment to celebrate the greatest goal-scorer in hockey history — comes at the cost of wrestling with the moral implications of his affiliations.
The Quandary for Canadian Hockey Fans
So, what does all this mean for Canadian hockey fans who want to celebrate the game’s beauty and the passing of this particular goal-scoring torch? It leaves them in a difficult position — forced to separate the sport from the politics. On one hand, we have two of the greatest players ever to play the game, both reaching monumental milestones. On the other hand, these players have tied themselves to controversial, and at times, anti-Canadian figures.
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For many, these entanglements with figures like Trump and Putin create a dissonance. At its core, hockey is about the game — the skill, the passion, and the achievements on the ice. But these players’ political associations are impossible to ignore. Canadian fans, in particular, are now faced with a dilemma. How do you celebrate a record-breaking moment when the game’s heroes are also profoundly connected to figures whose values directly oppose what so many Canadians hold dear?
The Blend of Sports and Politics Institutes a Complex Situation
Ultimately, this situation begs the question: Can Canadians celebrate Ovechkin’s record and Gretzky’s legacy without endorsing their political connections? Today, like it or not, we all live in an age where athletes are more than just players. Their personal lives and beliefs often become a part of their public persona.
These political ties and leanings transcend the rink. Hockey and politics are increasingly intertwined. If they were not, events like the 4 Nations Face-Off (nation against nation) wouldn’t work. The NHL has already intertwined politics with sport by not including Russia in the 4 Nations tournament. The NHL recognizes the political context. As a result, fans of each different country are left to navigate the murky waters of admiration for athletic achievement versus the implications of supporting figures who represent deeply problematic political ideologies.
Ovechkin’s Breaking Gretzky’s Record Was an Incredible Hockey Feat
While hockey fans globally will continue to admire Ovechkin’s incredible hockey feat, the celebration is more complicated for those who live in Canada and revere the values the Maple Leaf represents. As Canadian hockey fans, how do we reconcile our love for the game with the uncomfortable truths about the players who have shaped it?
It’s a complicated legacy. For many, perhaps especially Canadians, the path forward is no longer as clear-cut as it once seemed.
