Alex Ovechkin Announces Death Of His Father

Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin announced on Wednesday that his father, Mikhail, has died.

The 37-year-old posted the news on Instagram. Mikhail was 71 years old.

"Today I lost my father," Ovechkin wrote in Russian. "I thank everyone for the support, but please be understanding and do not disturb my family in this difficult time for us. Thank you."

Ovechkin will be away from the team for the "foreseeable future" as he returns to Russia to be with his family.

Mikhail played professional soccer for FC Dynamo Moscow, leading Ovechkin to sign a one-match deal with them this summer and wear his father's No. 3. Ovechkin's father also watched his son reach various NHL scoring milestones. After Mikhail was unable to travel to see his son win the Stanley Cup back in 2018, Ovechkin brought the Cup to him as he returned home to Russia.

Back in 2014, Mikhail had heart surgery and had been dealing with ongoing health issues.

T.J. Oshie, who lost his father Tim back in 2021, said that the Capitals are rallying around their captain and supporting him as he takes indefinite leave from the team.

"I hope 'O' knows how much he means to us and how much we're behind him and anything he needs," Oshie said. "Right now, just thoughts for the Ovechkin family.

"It's different when you lose really any player for injury as opposed to a family matter," he added. "Especially the big man, who's created a lot of success not only for the organization but for individuals in the room, me being definitely one of them. You play a little bit harder in moments like this."

Through 54 games this season, Ovechkin has 32 goals and 22 assists. He sits at 812 career goals and is 83 from breaking Wayne Gretzky's all-time goals record.