When Alexander Ovechkin first held a hockey stick, his path to greatness was set in motion. Now, decades later, he stands as a well-known figure in ice hockey. He has become a relentless force on the rink and a living legend whose name has been etched in the annals of hockey history. Get to know more about the extraordinary life and career of Alexander Ovechkin, the man known simply as “Ovi” and revered as “the Great Eight.”
Table of Contents
Who is Alexander Ovechkin?
Alexander Ovechkin came into existence in Moscow on September 17, 1985, into a family steeped in athletics. His father Mikhail, a professional football player, and mother Tatyana Ovechkina, a basketball star with Olympic gold medals, planted the seed for his athletic career. Ovechkin’s love of hockey began at the young age of two, and it seemed as though his future was predetermined by the stars. Ovechkin’s skill came through despite the difficulties of a humble upbringing in a remote area of Moscow, where sports served as an escape from the harsh reality of daily life. He broke records and dreamed of playing in the NHL within the Dynamo Moscow system because of his hard work and determination.
Ovechkin’s rise to stardom in the NHL was quick and impressive. He quickly established himself in the league after being selected by the Washington Capitals with the first overall pick in 2004. With an electrifying rookie season (2005–06), Ovechkin won the Calder Memorial Trophy as the NHL’s best rookie, captivating the attention of fans throughout the globe. He rewrote the record books with his uncompromising pursuit of perfection, winning nine Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophies for the most goals scored in a season and sealing his spot in history alongside hockey greats Wayne Gretzky and Gordie Howe.
Ovechkin’s influence extended outside the NHL to the global arena. He proudly and passionately represented Russia, at multiple IIHF competitions and the Winter Olympics. Ovechkin made a lasting impact on Russian hockey with his performances at the Olympics and his debut at the World Junior Championships. In addition to his unmatched talent, his leadership and perseverance consolidated his reputation as a national hero and a symbol of Russian athletics.
Cover Athlete and Fashion Line
Ovechkin was on the covers of video games like NHL 2K10 and NHL 07 and 21. He also launched his own streetwear brand with CCM. This means he designed cool clothes that people liked to wear.
Winter Olympics Ambassador and Other Roles
He was chosen to represent the Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, in 2014. Ovechkin was also named one of the most powerful people in Washington, D.C., by a magazine called GQ.
Funny Commercials and Car Enthusiast
He appeared in a funny commercial for ESPN. Ovechkin also loves cars and owns some fancy ones like a Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series and a custom Mercedes S63 AMG.
Charitable Acts and Programs
He’s known for his charity work too. Ovechkin once lobbied Honda for a car at an All-Star Game, and when he got it, he donated it to a charity called the American Special Hockey Association. He also started a program called Ovi’s Crazy 8’s, where he gives away Capitals tickets to kids who might not be able to afford them.
Movies, Sports Teams, and Football Fan
He’s been in a few movies and is a big fan of the Washington Spirit, a women’s soccer team. Ovechkin even played one game for a Russian football team called FC Dynamo Moscow.
Political Views and Feud
Ovechkin supported Russian President Vladimir Putin, even starting a group called PutinTeam. He’s also had a public feud with another Russian hockey player, Evgeni Malkin. They didn’t talk for a while but seem to be friends again now.
What is Alexander Ovechkin’s age, height, and weight?
As of May 2024, Alexander Ovechkin is 38 years old. He is 6 feet 3 inches (191 cm) tall and weighs around 235 pounds (107 kg).
What is Alexander Ovechkin’s Nationality and Ethnicity?
Alexander Ovechkin is Russian by nationality and is of Russian ethnicity.
What is Alexander Ovechkin’s profession?
Alexander is a professional ice hockey player. He has had a highly successful career in the NHL, playing as a forward for the Washington Capitals since he was selected by them in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. Ovechkin has consistently been one of the league’s top scorers and has won numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including the Calder Memorial Trophy as the NHL’s best rookie in 2006 and the Hart Memorial Trophy as the league’s most valuable player multiple times. Additionally, he has won the Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy for leading the NHL in goals scored multiple times.
| Team | Years | Statistics | Key Descriptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dynamo Moscow (RSL/KHL) | 2001–2005 | 152 games, 36 goals, 32 assists | Ovechkin began his professional career with Dynamo Moscow in the Russian Super League (RSL). |
| Avangard Omsk (RSL/KHL) | 2004–2005 | N/A (Signed during NHL lockout) | Ovechkin signed with Avangard Omsk during the NHL lockout but later opted out to join the Capitals. |
| Washington Capitals (NHL) | 2005–present | 1209 games, 832 goals, 816 assists | Ovechkin has been a dominant force for the Capitals, breaking numerous records and winning the Stanley Cup. |
- Dynamo Moscow (RSL/KHL): Ovechkin’s early professional years were spent with Dynamo Moscow in the Russian Super League (RSL) before moving to the NHL.
- Avangard Omsk (RSL/KHL): Ovechkin briefly signed with Avangard Omsk during the NHL lockout but later opted out to join the Washington Capitals.
- Washington Capitals (NHL): Ovechkin’s NHL career has been with the Washington Capitals, where he has become one of the greatest goal scorers in NHL history, leading the team to a Stanley Cup victory in 2018 and setting numerous records along the way.
Who is Alexander Ovechkin’s Parents?
Alexander Ovechkin’s parents are Mikhail Ovechkin and Tatyana Ovechkina. Mikhail Ovechkin was a professional soccer player, while Tatyana Ovechkina was a two-time Olympic gold medalist in basketball for the Soviet Union. Their athletic backgrounds influenced Alexander’s passion and talent for sports.
Does Alexander Ovechkin have siblings?
Yes, Alexander Ovechkin has an older brother named Mikhail. While Mikhail didn’t reach the same level of fame as his younger brother Alexander, he has been supportive of Alexander’s hockey career.
Who is Alex Ovechkin married to?
Ovechkin is married to Anastasia Shubskaya. She is a Russian model and actress. The couple tied the knot in 2016, and they have two children together, a son named Sergei Aleksandrovich Ovechkin and a daughter named Ilya Aleksandrovich Ovechkin.
Does Alexander Ovechkin have children?
Yes, Alexander Ovechkin has two children. He has a son named Sergei Aleksandrovich Ovechkin and a daughter named Ilya Aleksandrovich Ovechkin, both with his wife Anastasia Shubskaya. The family often shares moments on social media.
What is Alexander Ovechkin’s Net Worth?
Alex Ovechkin has an impressive net worth of $80 million as of May 2024.
What philanthropic causes or charities does Alexander Ovechkin support?
Ovechkin supports children’s health and sports initiatives. Ovechkin has been involved in various charitable initiatives organized by the Washington Capitals, the NHL team he plays for. These initiatives often focus on supporting local communities, youth programs, and charitable organizations in the Washington, D.C. area.
Ovechkin has supported the SickKids Foundation, which raises funds for The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) in Toronto, Canada. SickKids is a leading pediatric hospital dedicated to improving children’s health.
Ovechkin has granted wishes for children through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, a nonprofit organization that arranges experiences described as “wishes” to children with critical illnesses.
Ovechkin has been involved with Special Hockey, a program that provides opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities to play ice hockey. He has participated in events and games organized by Special Hockey teams.
Ovechkin has participated in various charity games, auctions, and fundraising events to support causes such as cancer research, disaster relief efforts, and youth sports development.
| Philanthropic Involvements | Key Descriptions |
|---|---|
| Washington Capitals’ initiatives | Actively supports various charitable initiatives organized by the Washington Capitals, focusing on local communities and youth programs. |
| SickKids Foundation | Supports the SickKids Foundation, which raises funds for The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) in Toronto, Canada. |
| Make-A-Wish Foundation | Grants wishes for children through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, providing experiences to children with critical illnesses. |
| Special Hockey | Participates in events and games organized by Special Hockey, offering opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities to play ice hockey. |
| Other charitable events | Participates in charity games, auctions, and fundraising events supporting causes such as cancer research, disaster relief, and youth sports development. |
How many businesses does Alexander Ovechkin own?
Alex Ovechkin joined the ownership group of NWSL Washington Spirit, a club investor group in 2021.
What brands and endorsements does Alexander Ovechkin have?
A prominent Alexander Ovechkin has secured notable endorsement and brand deals.
- Nike: Ovechkin has been affiliated with Nike, often seen wearing their athletic apparel and footwear.
- Bauer Hockey: As a professional hockey player, Ovechkin has had an endorsement deal with Bauer, a leading manufacturer of hockey equipment.
- CCM Hockey: Similar to Bauer, Ovechkin has been associated with CCM Hockey, another major brand in the hockey equipment industry.
- Beats by Dre: Ovechkin has been spotted wearing Beats by Dre headphones, indicating a potential endorsement or partnership.
- Gillette: Ovechkin has appeared in advertising campaigns for Gillette, a renowned brand for grooming products.
- Papa John’s: Ovechkin has been featured in advertisements for Papa John’s, a popular pizza chain.
- He also has Coca-cola to his credit.
| Brand | Description |
|---|---|
| Nike | Ovechkin has been associated with Nike, often seen wearing their athletic apparel and footwear. |
| Bauer Hockey | Ovechkin has had an endorsement deal with Bauer, a leading manufacturer of hockey equipment. |
| CCM Hockey | Similar to Bauer, Ovechkin has been associated with CCM Hockey, another major brand in the hockey equipment industry. |
| Beats by Dre | Ovechkin has been spotted wearing Beats by Dre headphones, indicating a potential endorsement or partnership. |
| Gillette | Ovechkin has appeared in advertising campaigns for Gillette, a renowned brand for grooming products. |
| Papa John’s | Ovechkin has been featured in advertisements for Papa John’s, a popular pizza chain. |
How much does Alexander Ovechkin make annually?
The Washington Capitals and Alex Ovechkin agreed to a five-year, $47,500,000 contract that included a $34,500,000 signing bonus, a $47,500,000 guarantee, and an average salary of $9,500,000 per year. Since Forbes started releasing an NHL earnings list in 2010, Ovechkin has become the highest-paid player in hockey for the first time.
| Season | Clause | Cap Hit | AAV | Performance Bonuses | Signing Bonuses | Base Salary | Total Salary | Minors Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021-22 | M-NTC, NMC | $9,500,000 | $9,500,000 | $0 | $4,000,000 | $5,000,000 | $5,000,000 | – |
| 2022-23 | M-NTC, NMC | $9,500,000 | $9,500,000 | $0 | $9,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $10,000,000 | – |
| 2023-24 | M-NTC, NMC | $9,500,000 | $9,500,000 | $0 | $11,500,000 | $1,000,000 | $12,500,000 | – |
| 2024-25 | M-NTC, NMC | $9,500,000 | $9,500,000 | $0 | $6,000,000 | $5,000,000 | $11,000,000 | – |
| 2025-26 | M-NTC, NMC | $9,500,000 | $9,500,000 | $0 | $4,000,000 | $5,000,000 | $9,000,000 | – |
| TOTAL | – | $47,500,000 | $47,500,000 | $0 | $34,500,000 | $13,000,000 | $47,500,000 | – |
| – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
Ovechkin has a projected fortune of US $170,720,893 at the end of his contract.
| Season | Earnings (US$) | In today’s US$ | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2005-06 | $984,200 | $1,535,592 | 336 |
| 2006-07 | $984,200 | $1,487,602 | 372 |
| 2007-08 | $984,200 | $1,446,348 | 381 |
| 2008-09 | $9,000,000 | $12,737,111 | 2 |
| 2009-10 | $9,000,000 | $12,782,232 | 2 |
| 2010-11 | $9,000,000 | $12,575,897 | 3 |
| 2011-12 | $9,000,000 | $12,191,251 | 5 |
| 2012-13 | $5,268,293 | $6,991,806 | 13 |
| 2013-14 | $9,000,000 | $11,771,549 | 9 |
| 2014-15 | $10,000,000 | $12,870,660 | 8 |
| 2015-16 | $10,000,000 | $12,855,455 | 6 |
| 2016-17 | $10,000,000 | $12,695,304 | 8 |
| 2017-18 | $10,000,000 | $12,430,646 | 8 |
| 2018-19 | $10,000,000 | $12,134,124 | 9 |
| 2019-20 | $10,000,000 | $11,918,173 | 20 |
| 2020-21 | $10,000,000 | $11,773,570 | 14 |
| 2021-22 | $5,000,000 | $5,621,771 | 164 |
| 2022-23 | $10,000,000 | $10,409,976 | 12 |
| 2023-24 | $12,500,000 | $12,500,000 | 4 |
| 2024-25 | $11,000,000 | – | – |
| 2025-26 | $9,000,000 | – | – |
Contract Details:
- 2007-08: Signed a 13-year contract extension with the Washington Capitals for $124M, starting in 2008-09, paying him $9M/year for the first 6 seasons and $10M/year for the following 7 seasons.
- 2021-22: Signed a five-year contract with the Washington Capitals for $47.5M.
- 2024-25: Under contract for $11,000,000.
- 2025-26: Under contract for $9,000,000.
How many houses and cars does Alexander Ovechkin have?
Ovechkin, being a highly successful and well-paid NHL player has several properties and vehicles to suit his lifestyle and preferences. Ovechkin is an ardent auto enthusiast who owns several exquisite vehicles, including a customized Mercedes S63 AMG and a Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series.
How many awards has Alex Ovechkin won?
In his brilliant career, Alexander Ovechkin is considered by many to be one of the best ice hockey players of all time and has won several awards. Ovechkin has amassed an impressive array of awards over the years, including scoring crowns, MVP awards, and All-Star selections.
The coveted Hart Memorial Trophy, which Ovechkin has won several times to seal his position as the NHL’s most valuable player, is the crowning achievement of his career. His reputation as a prolific attacking force on the ice has been further recognized by his several Rocket Richard Trophies, which are given to the league’s top goal scorer for extraordinary scoring skill.
Aside from winning individual honors, Ovechkin has been a key member of his Washington Capitals team’s winning squad on several occasions. In 2018, Ovechkin captained the Capitals to their historic first Stanley Cup victory.
| Year | Award/Honor | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | Calder Memorial Trophy | Awarded to the NHL’s top rookie player. |
| 2006 | NHL First All-Star Team | Recognizes the best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2006 | NHL All-Rookie Team | Honors the best rookies in the NHL at each position. |
| 2007 | Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy | Awarded to the NHL’s leading goal scorer. |
| 2008 | Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy | Recognizes the NHL’s top goal scorer. |
| 2008 | NHL First All-Star Team | Acknowledges the best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2009 | Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy | Awarded to the NHL’s leading goal scorer. |
| 2009 | NHL First All-Star Team | Recognizes the best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2009 | NHL Second All-Star Team | Honors the second-best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2010 | Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy | Recognizes the NHL’s top goal scorer. |
| 2010 | NHL First All-Star Team | Acknowledges the best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2010 | NHL Second All-Star Team | Honors the second-best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2013 | NHL First All-Star Team | Recognizes the best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2013 | NHL Second All-Star Team | Honors the second-best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2014 | Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy | Awarded to the NHL’s leading goal scorer. |
| 2014 | NHL First All-Star Team | Acknowledges the best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2014 | NHL Second All-Star Team | Honors the second-best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2015 | Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy | Recognizes the NHL’s top goal scorer. |
| 2015 | NHL First All-Star Team | Recognizes the best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2015 | NHL Second All-Star Team | Honors the second-best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2016 | Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy | Awarded to the NHL’s leading goal scorer. |
| 2016 | NHL First All-Star Team | Acknowledges the best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2016 | NHL Second All-Star Team | Honors the second-best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2017 | Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy | Recognizes the NHL’s top goal scorer. |
| 2017 | NHL First All-Star Team | Recognizes the best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2017 | NHL Second All-Star Team | Honors the second-best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2018 | Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy | Awarded to the NHL’s leading goal scorer. |
| 2018 | NHL First All-Star Team | Acknowledges the best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2018 | NHL Second All-Star Team | Honors the second-best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2019 | NHL First All-Star Team | Recognizes the best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2019 | NHL Second All-Star Team | Honors the second-best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2019 | Conn Smythe Trophy | Awarded to the most valuable player during the NHL playoffs. |
| 2020 | NHL First All-Star Team | Acknowledges the best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2020 | NHL Second All-Star Team | Honors the second-best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2020 | Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy | Recognizes the NHL’s top goal scorer. |
| 2021 | NHL First All-Star Team | Recognizes the best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2021 | Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy | Awarded to the NHL’s leading goal scorer. |
| 2021 | Mark Messier Leadership Award | Presented to the player who exemplifies great leadership qualities both on and off the ice. |
| 2021 | NHL Second All-Star Team | Honors the second-best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2021 | Conn Smythe Trophy | Awarded to the most valuable player during the NHL playoffs. |
| 2022 | NHL First All-Star Team | Acknowledges the best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2022 | NHL Second All-Star Team | Honors the second-best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2022 | Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy | Recognizes the NHL’s top goal scorer. |
| 2023 | NHL First All-Star Team | Recognizes the best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2023 | NHL Second All-Star Team | Honors the second-best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2023 | Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy | Awarded to the NHL’s leading goal scorer. |
| 2024 | NHL First All-Star Team | Acknowledges the best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2024 | NHL Second All-Star Team | Honors the second-best performing players in their respective positions during the NHL regular season. |
| 2024 | Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy | Recognizes the NHL’s top goal scorer. |
Did you know Ovechkin is known for his pre-game rituals?
Of course! Ovechkin has some interesting warm-up exercises. His practice of carefully taping his sticks before every game is among the most well-known. He’s been seen carrying out this precise motion, almost ritualistically, to make sure everything is perfect before breaking the ice.
Ever heard about Ovechkin’s off-ice hobbies?
Yes, Ovechkin is not just a superstar on the ice; he has some interesting off-ice hobbies too. One of his passions is playing soccer. In fact, during the NHL lockout in 2012-2013, he even joined a local soccer team in Russia to keep himself active and engaged in sports. It’s pretty cool to see his love for different games beyond hockey.
Any fun tidbits about Alex Ovechkin’s early life in Russia?
Oh yes! Back in Russia, Ovechkin was tearing up the ice before he became a household name in the National Hockey League. Unbeknownst to most, though, is that Tatyana Ovechkina, his mother, was also a professional athlete. She represented the Soviet Union in basketball and won two gold medals in the Olympics. It would appear that being a great athlete runs in the family!
What about Ovechkin’s Charity causes off the ice?
Outside of the rink, Ovechkin is well-known for his charitable giving. He supports children’s hospitals and programs that encourage youth sports, among other humanitarian endeavors. His invention of the “Ovi’s Crazy 8s” initiative, which enables impoverished kids to attend Washington Capitals games, is one noteworthy example. Seeing him make such a significant contribution to the community warms many hearts.
Has Ovechkin won a Stanley Cup?
Yes, Ovechkin led his team to their premier Stanley Cup in 2018.
How many goals does Ovechkin have all the time?
Alex Ovechkin has an impressive 853 goals, adding him to the top list of most career goals in NHL history, just after Wayne Gretzky.
How many goals does Ovechkin have in 2024?
Ovechkin had 822 career goals before going into the 2023–24 season. With 31 goals at the end of the season, he now has 853 goals in his career.
How many rings does Ovechkin have?
Alex Ovechkin has only one championship to his credit.
Will Ovechkin ever break Wayne Gretzky’s record?
Ovechkin is equally a formidable hockey player and can match up to Wayne’s records. However, in order to overtake Wayne Gretzky (894) as the NHL’s all-time top scorer, Ovechkin needs 54 more goals.