By playing a shift in Friday’s matchup with the Chicago Blackhawks, Karl Alzner became the third defenseman since 1944 to play in 500-straight games. Considering how physical hockey is and how demanding an 82-game schedule can be, this is an impressive milestone. And the congratulations have been pouring in.

Baseball Hall of Famer and owner of the longest consecutive games streak, Cal Ripken, Jr., congratulated Karl in a tribute video made by the team.

Video

A tribute to @KarlAlzner on 500 consecutive games played with a message from Cal Ripken Jr.! #CapsIronMan #RockTheRed @RipkenBaseball pic.twitter.com/MAUyTGh5ms

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) January 14, 2017

“Karl, I wanted to take a moment to congratulate you on playing 500 consecutive games,” Ripken said. “Hockey is an incredibly physical sport, and for you to play that many games in a row is a testament to your ability and your toughness. Best of luck to you and the Capitals this season, only 2132 more games to catch me.”

Caps Owner Ted Leonsis also congratulated Karl, pointing out that he wore the new red, white, and blue jerseys first.

The Alzner 500. Congrats to Karl Alzner – 1st in team history to 500 consecutive game. 1st draft pick to return us to red, white, and blue. pic.twitter.com/6poyBZPdoX

— Ted Leonsis (@TedLeonsis) January 14, 2017

The only person left to congratulate Karl would be Tony Stark himself.

Caps Defenseman @karlalzner on his 500th consecutive game played tonight. #CapsHawks #CapsIronMan pic.twitter.com/cRIejDoab8

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) January 13, 2017

Alzner speaks about the milestone.

Full Coverage of Caps vs. Blackhawks

Super cool headline image via @WashCapsNow