An emotional Alex Ovechkin spoke to Monumental Sports Network’s Al Koken after scoring his 894th career goal.
With the tally, Ovechkin tied Wayne Gretzky for the most goals in NHL history in front of The Great One and his adoring fans at Capital One Arena.
Ovechkin teared up when speaking about his family, who were all in attendance to see the Capitals’ captain make history. Ovechkin’s mother Tatyana; wife Nastya; sons Sergei and Ilya; and father-in-law Kirill Shubsky were all present.
Notably, Ovechkin wears the number 8 in honor of his two-time gold medal-winning mother.
Full transcript
Al Koken: Well Alex, first of all congratulations. Can you put into words this night has been all about for you?
Alex Ovechkin: It’s fun. [loud ovation from crowd] I’m sure like everybody enjoy this moment because it’s something special. Doing it at home, you know, in front of fans, family, friends, and obviously Wayne is here as well. It’s a huge honor. It’s a historical moment. It’s great.”
Al Koken: What does this mean to you?
Alex Ovechkin: You know, it means a lot. [chokes up] I don’t know what to say right now I’m so emotional. You never thought like you can reach that milestone and obviously, how I always said, without all my teammates, all my partners, like you guys, obviously my family, my mom, [loud ovation] my wife, they support everything I need, obviously. It’s great, so yeah.
Al Koken: I know your family means a lot to you. What would you like to say to them?
Alex Ovechkin: I love you guys. Without you, mom, Nast, my kids obviously they here as well, my father in law, it’s great, thanks for everything. I love you so much. [tears up] I can’t wait to see you guys.
Al Koken: One last thing, I know your teammates are waiting for you. This building has been been buzzing all night long. What would you like to say to these Washington Capitals fans?
Alex Ovechkin: Thank you, guys, for whole support. You know, it’s been pleasure. It’s been tremendous atmosphere all games. Without your support, I’m happy I did it here, scored the tying-goal so it’s a very cool moment.
Ovechkin then walked down the tunnel to the locker room where his teammates gave him a beer bath.
