A prominent NHL player has sparked controversy by appearing in a Russian government-backed advertisement, drawing criticism from fans and analysts. The athlete, known for his outspoken support of Ukraine, has faced backlash for his participation in the promotional video, which aligns with Kremlin-backed messaging. In a statement, he defended his decision, emphasizing his Russian heritage as a key factor in his choice. The incident has reignited debates over athlete activism and geopolitical influence in sports.

‘I’m Russian’: NHL star Ovechkin defends Putin ad appearance  Al Jazeera