who said he will return to the NHL at the age of 40?

Alex Ovechkin said he would return to the NHL at age 40. A Washington Capitals report from May 2025 noted that he planned to come back for his 21st NHL season in 2025-26 “at the age of 40,” and later reports confirmed he was returning for another season.

Who it was

• Alex Ovechkin was the player tied to that statement.

• He later said, “I’m back!” when announcing his return for another NHL campaign.

Quick context

• The age-40 detail referred to Ovechkin continuing his career in the 2025-26 season.

• Coverage in July 2026 said he had re-signed and would play a 22nd NHL season.

TL;DR: It was Alex Ovechkin.