WAHINGTON (7News) — For more than a decade, it was called The Great Chase. Now, it’s hockey history — and the celebration is just beginning.
Washington Capitals’ Alex Ovechkin spoke exclusively with 7News Wednesday morning after surpassing Wayne Gretzky to become the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer.
In an exclusive sit-down with 7News Anchor Scott Thuman, Ovechkin reflected on the moment that solidified his place in hockey history.
WATCH THE INTERVIEW BELOW:
At one point in the interview, Thuman showed Ovechkin an old video where he laughed off the idea of ever breaking the record — prompting a chuckle from Ovi.
“Well, yeah, we did it.. It’s tremendous,” Ovechkin told 7News. “Obviously, no one thought till that happened.”
The Washington Capitals are planning a full celebration to honor the star in a pre-game ceremony on Thursday before the Caps host the Carolina Hurricanes. All fans in attendance will receive a rally towel, featuring the iconic image of Ovechkin sliding across the ice as he celebrated goal number 895.
RELATED | Capitals announce plans to honor Alex Ovechkin after breaking NHL all-time record
“All the work that we have as a team, as a group, and, you know, every day to come to the rink and feel that pressure, feel that, you know, atmosphere around it, it was great,” Ovechkin added.
RELATED | Alex Ovechkin, fresh off record-breaking weekend, named NHL’s First Star for the week
He also spoke to 7News about how important it was to have his family witness the history-making moment.
“My family was there, my mom, my kids, my wife and my father-in-law,” Ovechkin said. “It’s a tremendous moment for me and… for them as well.”
Ovechkin said he’s grateful — but it’s clear he’s not done yet. 7News asked what his next goal is beyond the playoffs.
“I’m just going to enjoy my time, and we’ll see,” he added.