Wayne Gretzky remains the heart and soul of hockey, even years after his retirement. Often regarded as the greatest ice hockey player of all time, Gretzky’s influence on the game is unmatched. Nicknamed “The Great One,” he broke records that seemed untouchable and revolutionized the way hockey is played. Whether it was his unparalleled vision on the ice or his ability to score at will, Gretzky changed the game forever. Let’s take a closer look at his legendary career, personal life, and financial success.
The Early Years: A Hockey Prodigy in the Making
Born on January 26, 1961, in Brantford, Ontario, Wayne Gretzky’s love for hockey started at an incredibly young age. His father, Walter Gretzky, played a huge role in shaping his career, building a backyard rink where young Wayne would practice for hours. By the time he was six years old, he was playing against much older kids and dominating games, making it clear that he was something special.
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His first big break came in the 1975-76 season, when he won Rookie of the Year honors in the Metro Junior B Hockey League. However, since the NHL didn’t allow players under 20 to sign, Gretzky had to take a different route. Instead of waiting for an NHL contract, he joined the World Hockey Association (WHA) at just 17 years old, signing a seven-year personal services contract worth $1.75 million USD with the Indianapolis Racers. It was only a matter of time before the NHL came calling.
NHL Stardom: Records, Championships, and the Rise of “The Great One”
In 1979, the Edmonton Oilers joined the NHL, bringing Gretzky with them. From the moment he stepped onto the ice, it was clear that he was destined for greatness. In his very first NHL season, he won the Hart Memorial Trophy as the league’s Most Valuable Player (MVP). That was just the beginning of a legendary career that would redefine the sport.
Gretzky quickly became the most dominant force in hockey, breaking records at an astonishing pace. In the 1981-82 season, he scored 92 goals, a record that still stands today. But it wasn’t just about scoring—he also set the record for most assists in a single season with 163 assists in 1985-86. His ability to control the game and make his teammates better was unlike anything the NHL had ever seen.
During his time with the Oilers, he led them to four Stanley Cup victories (1984, 1985, 1987, 1988), cementing his place as one of the all-time greats. By the time he left Edmonton in 1988, he had already become the NHL’s all-time leader in multiple categories, and his legend continued to grow.
The Trade That Shook the Hockey World
In what is still considered the most shocking trade in NHL history, Gretzky was traded to the Los Angeles Kings in 1988. The move sent shockwaves through the hockey world, but it also helped grow the sport in the United States. His arrival in LA brought unprecedented attention to hockey, helping to expand the NHL’s footprint in non-traditional markets like California.
Even though he didn’t win another Stanley Cup with the Kings, Gretzky continued to dominate. He became the NHL’s all-time leading scorer, surpassing Gordie Howe’s record of 1,850 career points. By the time he retired in 1999, his career totals were mind-blowing:
- Most goals: 894
- Most assists: 1,963
- Most points: 2,857
- Most 100-point seasons: 15
- Most playoff goals: 122
- Most playoff assists: 260
His career numbers are so astonishing that the NHL retired his jersey number (99) league-wide, an honor no other player has received.
Life After Hockey: Coaching, Business, and Media
After retiring, Gretzky tried his hand at coaching, but his success behind the bench never quite matched his on-ice brilliance. He later transitioned into business and media, becoming a highly respected TV analyst. His love for hockey never faded, and he continues to be an ambassador for the sport, ensuring that his legacy lives on for future generations.
Family Life: The Gretzky Dynasty
Wayne Gretzky’s personal life has been just as successful as his hockey career. In 1988, he married actress Janet Jones, whom he met while judging a TV show, Dance Fever. Their wedding, dubbed the “Royal Wedding of Hockey,” reportedly cost over $1 million and was attended by celebrities and athletes alike.
Together, Wayne and Janet have five children: three sons and two daughters. One of their daughters, Paulina Gretzky, is married to professional golfer Dustin Johnson, making their family a powerhouse in both hockey and golf.
Wayne Gretzky’s Net Worth and Business Ventures
Gretzky’s dominance on the ice translated into massive financial success off the ice. As of 2025, his estimated net worth is $250 million. During his playing career, he earned $46 million in salary and another $50 million in endorsements, which, when adjusted for inflation, adds up to about $150 million.
Beyond hockey, Gretzky has built an impressive business portfolio. His investments include:
- Sports team ownership (he was a part-owner of the Phoenix Coyotes)
- A successful vineyard
- Real estate ventures
- Various endorsements and media appearances
His ability to maintain and grow his wealth post-retirement proves that he is just as smart in business as he was on the ice.
The Legacy of “The Great One”
Even in retirement, Wayne Gretzky’s impact on hockey is undeniable. His records remain untouched, his influence on the game continues to inspire, and his legacy is cemented as the greatest to ever play the sport.
The NHL has seen many great players, but none have come close to “The Great One.” His combination of skill, vision, and leadership made him the ultimate player, and his contributions to the sport will never be forgotten.
Whether you’re a die-hard hockey fan or a casual viewer, one thing is certain: Wayne Gretzky changed hockey forever, and his name will always be synonymous with greatness.
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