Social media reacts to Ovechkin’s retirement announcement

Alex Ovechkin's big announcement on Monday came with a lot chatter around the NHL.

The Washington Capitals captain and League’s all-time leading scorer made it official that the 2026-27 season would be his last.

Naturally, he broke the news to his teammates first.

Once the decision went public, Zach Leonsis, the president and vice chairman of Monumental Sports & Entertainment (Capitals owners), was one of the first to share some of his personal stories with the all-time great.

“I know this season will be emotional, but it will also be a celebration of Ovi, of everything he has accomplished, and of the incredible journey we’ve been fortunate enough to share with him,” Leonsis wrote. “I look forward to appreciating every moment of this final season alongside Alex, our fans, and everyone who has been part of this incredible journey.”

Wes Johnson, the longtime Capitals PA announcer who has been with the team for Ovechkin’s entire career, was quick to follow suit.

"From the first goal to whatever wonderful things happen this season, this man has made hockey fun, special & epic not just in the DMV, but around the world," Johnson wrote. "Thanks Alex. Let’s UNLEASH one more time!"

Ovechkin will be welcomed onto the ice at Capital One Arena for the first time in his final season on Wednesday when the team hosts the Pittsburgh Penguins in its home opener (7:30 p.m. ET; TNT, HBO MAX).