Wayne Gretzky officially retired from the NHL in April 1999, after playing his final game on April 18, 1999, with the New York Rangers.

Quick Scoop: When Did Gretzky Retire?

  • Wayne Gretzky announced his retirement in mid-April 1999, near the end of the 1998–99 NHL season.
  • His final NHL game was played on April 18, 1999, at Madison Square Garden against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
  • He was 38 years old when he retired, closing a 20-season NHL career.

In simple terms: if you’re answering “when did Gretzky retire?” the key date is April 18, 1999.

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