The athlete proved true to their own principles. Despite the decision of the National hockey League not to go to the Olympics, which will be held in South Korea, Alexander Ovechkin said that still wants to represent Russia at the prestigious event.

The whole country is discussing the statement of the forward “Washington” Alexander Ovechkin. The athlete said he plans to play at the winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, despite the decision of the National hockey League. 3 APR released an official statement saying that its players will not go to the international competition in South Korea. However, Ovechkin is still going to go to them to represent Russia.

“Yeah, I haven’t changed my mind. I’m still going to the Olympics. This is my country. Everyone wants to play there. Opportunities like this come along very rarely,” he said at a meeting with journalists.

Note that his decision to go to South Korea Alexander Ovechkin repeatedly said before. So, the athlete said at the world Cup, which took place in September last year in Toronto. “I’ll go to the Olympics to play for their country. If someone tells me I can’t go there – to the meeting. I don’t know what could change my mind. As I said, I’m going to play in Korea,” – said Alexander.

We will remind that not so long ago the Russian striker club NHL Washington capitals Alexander Ovechkin was at the center of public attention because of the unusual skates, in which he came on as a warm up before a match with “Columbus”. On one Shoe the 31-year-old athlete sported the symbols of Russia and one for America.

“It’s the idea of husband – says “StarHit” Anastasia Sumska, wife of the athlete. – He painted them in honor of the event “an Evening of Russian heritage” which was organized by his club. Sasha gave a new hockey Shoe in American firm, which she was adorned. On the left skate, the St. Basil’s Cathedral, a reminder of his native country. On the right – the White house, since he now plays in the States. On the inner sides of the boot flags of the two Nations. In General, the NHL prohibits riding in shoes like that, but here in honor of the event allowed! Husband was the first in the history of hockey, who is allowed”.

Ovechkin took to the ice only once, and then put up for charity auction. Skates bought for $9.5 million – the money will go to help people with disabilities who play hockey. “Sasha is going to order a new pair of skates painted – continues to Subsky. – They really liked it. And our entire family were thrilled!”