Alex Ovechkin finally addresses the idea of retirement

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Josh Tupper
July 27, 2024 (3:57 PM)

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Alex Ovechkin Opens Up About Retirement Plans and Future

As Alex Ovechkin's illustrious career begins to wind down, the future Hall of Famer has finally shared insights into his retirement plans and where he intends to finish his playing career. Despite his continued passion for the game, Ovechkin has started to let fans in on what the end of his NHL journey might look like.

In a recent interview, Ovechkin discussed his thoughts on retirement and what he envisions for his post-NHL life. The interview, conducted in his native Russian and reported by Russian Machine Never Breaks, offers a rare glimpse into the future plans of the hockey legend.

Alex Ovechkin explains when he'll retire from hockey and what he might do after his career is over: "It will be hard for me to change"

Ovechkin emphasized that as long as he enjoys playing and gets a thrill out of it, he sees no reason to retire. He candidly described the challenges of returning from vacation and the rigorous training required to stay in top shape.

«As long as I enjoy [playing], as long as I get a thrill out of it, there's no point in finishing,» Ovechkin said per a transcription by sports.ru and a translation by Google Translate. «The hardest period is after vacation. You've played volleyball, gone to the gym for fun, and when you come out [from vacation], you need to run cross-country, lift heavy weights, go on a diet. And then you think: �Why do I need this, I have everything, I have enough of everything.' But after three to four days of suffering like that, you get into a routine and realize that you still love this business. If I didn't love it, I would have finished already.»

Ovechkin also revealed that he is building a home in Moscow and plans to return to Russia once his NHL career concludes. He expressed his deep connection to Washington, D.C., but acknowledged that Moscow is his true home.

«When I leave America, I will miss hockey,» Ovechkin said. «My childhood dream was to go to the NHL, not to America. I could have ended up in Canada. I can easily say that Washington is my second home, I feel comfortable there. Everyone knows me there, everyone loves me, I know and love everyone there. But home is home.»

With Ovechkin's time in the NHL drawing to a close, fans are encouraged to savor the remaining years of his career. His contributions to the sport and his impact on the Washington Capitals are undeniable, and his legacy will be celebrated long after he hangs up his skates.

As Ovechkin continues to chase records and enjoy the game he loves, the hockey world will cherish every moment of his remarkable journey.

Source: RMNB
Alex Ovechkin explains when he'll retire from hockey and what he might do after his career is over: �It will be hard for me to change'