Is Alex Ovechkin a U.S. Citizen? Trump’s Latest Comment Sparks Confusion
Alex Ovechkin citizenship confusion: President Donald Trump sparked a stir Tuesday by seeming to confuse the Russian hockey star with a Canadian during White House remarks. The incident occurred during a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, where Trump praised Canada’s contributions to hockey while referencing legendary players.
Without naming Ovechkin directly, Trump said, “You happen to have a very, very good hockey player right here on the Capitals… just broke the record. He’s a great guy.” His comment came while mentioning Canadian legend Wayne Gretzky, widely regarded as “The Great One.”
The moment left some reporters and viewers puzzled — was Trump calling Alex Ovechkin Canadian?
Alex Ovechkin: Who Is He?
One of the most powerful players in NHL history is Alex Ovechkin, who was born in Moscow, Russia. He has been a left winger with the Washington Capitals for a long time, breaking several records and helping the team win its first Stanley Cup in 2018.. While Ovechkin resides in the U.S. and has had a strong presence in American sports culture, he is not a U.S. citizen — he remains a citizen of Russia.
Trump previously met Ovechkin when the Capitals visited the White House after their Stanley Cup victory. The two appeared cordial, and Trump praised him then as well. But this latest remark has reignited confusion about Ovechkin’s background and nationality.
Trump and Wayne Gretzky’s Relationship
Trump also used the moment to praise Wayne Gretzky, who has shown support for Trump in the past and was seen wearing a MAGA hat. He has previously posted on Truth Social that Gretzky could “run for any political office in Canada and win,” further highlighting their friendly rapport.
Gretzky is connected to Trump through his son-in-law, professional golfer Dustin Johnson, a star in the LIV Golf league, which has been closely associated with Trump-owned courses.
So, Is Ovechkin Canadian?
No. Despite Trump’s vague wording, Alex Ovechkin is Russian, not Canadian or American. While his play on the Capitals has made him a household name in the U.S., his citizenship remains Russian, and there’s no public record of him pursuing American naturalization.
Source: Times Now World
