The NHL’s 4 Nations Face-Off has taken the hockey world by storm this week, drawing rave reviews from fans who’ve been craving international competition.
But not everyone’s celebrating.
Alex Ovechkin, the Washington Capitals’ superstar captain, isn’t even watching. The reason? His home country Russia isn’t part of the action.
“I’m not interested in watching if Russia isn’t there,” Ovechkin said bluntly about the tournament that’s bringing together teams from Canada, the United States, Sweden, and Finland.
The tournament marks the NHL’s return to international competition, something fans have been begging for. The games have been intense, the arenas packed, and social media buzzing with excitement.
For Ovechkin, though, it’s a painful reminder of what he’s missing. The 38-year-old legend has been vocal about wanting one last chance to represent Russia before hanging up his skates.
Russia’s absence from international hockey stems from broader global issues, but that hasn’t stopped Ovi from campaigning for his country’s return to the international stage.
The tournament’s success without Russia has been undeniable. But it’s also highlighted a complicated reality: one of hockey’s greatest players is watching from the sidelines, unable to represent the country he loves in what could be his final years in the sport.
