Alex Ovechkin became the National Hockey League’s all-time leading goal scorer on Sunday, netting his 895th career goal during the Washington Capitals’ game against the New York Islanders at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York. Despite the Capitals’ 4-1 loss, the milestone moment overshadowed the final score as Ovechkin’s achievement marked the culmination of a storied 20-year career.

The goal came seven minutes into the second period, during a power play when Casey Cizikas of the Islanders was penalized for tripping. As the crowd, many clad in Capitals red, filled the arena and chanted Ovechkin’s nickname, the forward received a pass from teammate Tom Wilson at the top of the left faceoff circle — a location synonymous with his scoring prowess. Ovechkin promptly fired a shot past Islanders goaltender Ilya Sorokin, securing the record by surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s long-standing benchmark.

The 895th goal was notable not only for its historic significance but also for the jubilant celebration from Ovechkin, who slid on his belly across the ice in a display of exuberance rarely seen from the 39-year-old veteran. Reflecting on the moment, Ovechkin expressed a mix of pride and disbelief. “To be honest with you, when I was tying the record [Friday], I still can’t believe it,” he said. “It was so emotional, it was such a great night, but this is something crazy. I’m going to need a couple more days or maybe a couple weeks to realize what does it mean to be number one. But I can say I’m very proud. I’m really proud for myself. I’m really proud.”

Throughout his career, Ovechkin has been known for his powerful and accurate shot, particularly from the left faceoff circle area, often referred to as “his office.” The new record not only crowns him as the top goal scorer in NHL history but also highlighted his consistency and longevity, having scored against 183 different goaltenders.

The anticipation for the record had been building over recent seasons, shifting from questions of if Ovechkin could surpass Gretzky to widespread speculation about when he would achieve it. Fans across Capitals arenas and away games had embraced the growing expectation, fueling chants and celebrations surrounding Ovechkin’s pursuit.

While the Capitals fell short in the game itself, the event cemented Ovechkin’s place among hockey’s all-time greats and provided a memorable highlight in a career characterized by individual excellence and dedication to the sport.