Jaromír Jágr, 52, Becomes Oldest Goal Scorer in Professional Hockey History

Jaromír Jágr, the legendary Czech hockey player, has become the oldest goal scorer in professional hockey history at the age of 52 years and 63 days. Jágr's historic goal came while playing for the Kladno Knights, the Czech Extraliga team he owns, in a critical relegation match on Thursday. His goal helped the Knights defeat VHK Vsetín 7-2, giving them a 2-0 lead in the best-of-seven series.

Jágr's achievement surpasses the previous record held by Canadian icon Gordie Howe, who scored his last goal at 52 years and 11 days old while playing for the Hartford Whalers in the 1979-80 NHL season. "I'm not sure how long I'm going to keep playing," Jágr said after the game. "It's not easy to be playing at this age, but I still have the desire to help my hometown team."

The 52-year-old winger, who had not played since February 10 due to injuries, made an immediate impact in his return. He scored the opening goal on his first shift and later added an assist in the Knights' victory. Jágr's goal showcased the skill and hockey sense that made him one of the greatest players in NHL history during his 24-season career.

Jágr's return to the ice came just days after he traveled to Pittsburgh, where the Penguins retired his iconic No. 68 jersey on March 4. He spent 11 seasons with the Penguins, helping them win back-to-back Stanley Cups in 1991 and 1992. Jágr ranks second in NHL history with 1,921 points, trailing only Wayne Gretzky's 2,857.

Why this matters: Jágr's goal scoring record at age 52 is a testament to his incredible longevity and enduring skill in a sport where most players retire by their late 30s. His achievement highlights the potential for athletes to continue competing at a high level well into their later years with proper training, passion, and dedication.

With the Kladno Knights' victory, they moved one step closer to ensuring their survival in the Czech Extraliga. The team, which Jágr has owned since 2011, faces relegation to the second-tier league if they lose the series against Vsetín. Jágr's presence on the ice and his leadership off it have been critical factors in the Knights' fight to remain in the top league.

Key Takeaways

• Jaromír Jágr, 52, becomes oldest goal scorer in pro hockey history.
• Jágr's goal helped Kladno Knights defeat VHK Vsetín 7-2 in relegation match.
• Jágr surpassed Gordie Howe's previous record of 52 years and 11 days.
• Jágr's return after injury helped Kladno Knights move closer to Extraliga survival.
• Jágr's longevity and skill at 52 highlight potential for athletes to compete at high levels.