The NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer has appeared in a new advertisement that aligns with the Russian government’s official messaging, raising questions about athlete endorsements amid geopolitical tensions. The video, which features the player in a pro-Russian context, comes as international sports figures increasingly face scrutiny over political affiliations. While the athlete has not publicly commented on the controversy, the ad has sparked debate over the boundaries of public advocacy in professional sports. Fans and critics are now weighing whether such endorsements reflect personal conviction or external pressures.

Alex Ovechkin, all-time NHL goal scorer, appears in ad supporting Vladimir Putin  NBC News