(MENAFN) Alexander Ovechkin made NHL history on Wednesday by becoming the first player ever to score 900 regular-season goals, though the milestone was accompanied by an unusual incident involving the opposing goalie.

The record-breaking goal came at 2:39 of the second period during the Washington Capitals’ home game against the St. Louis Blues. Ovechkin intercepted a clearing attempt by Blues goalie Jordan Binnington and swiftly backhanded the puck into the net.

Immediately after the goal, footage showed Binnington lunging for the puck and seemingly attempting to stash it in his pants. A linesman reportedly instructed him to return it, and the moment quickly went viral online.

Ovechkin celebrated in his signature style: the 40-year-old veteran raised his arms, skated to the bench, and was swarmed by teammates. This historic achievement further solidifies his legacy as the NHL’s all-time leading goalscorer.

Already holding the record for the most regular-season goals in league history—having surpassed the previous mark of 894 last season—Ovechkin continues to chase the milestone for most combined regular-season and playoff goals. With his career total now at 977, he needs 40 more to surpass the all-time record of 1,016.

Ovechkin’s achievements have received recognition internationally. Russian President Vladimir Putin praised the milestone as both a personal triumph and a gift to hockey fans worldwide, while US President Donald Trump also congratulated him, calling Ovechkin “a great hockey player, a great gentleman,” according to reports.

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