“Would take a miracle”: NHL legend Jaromir Jagr hints at retirement as record-breaking career draws to emotional closure

Hockey legend Jaromir Jagr has hinted that one of the sport’s longest and most successful careers may finally be coming to an end. Speaking in a social media interview, the Czech legend suggested that fans should not expect to see him return to the ice without a miracle. “It would have to be a miracle. God would have to come, enter me, and make me 15 years younger,” he said.

Now in his remarkable 38th professional season, Jaromir Jagr has played just six games for his hometown team, the Kladno Knights, this season. His last appearance was in December, sparking rumors that the all-time great winger may be quietly preparing for a final farewell rather than a return.

Jaromir Jagr, who recently turned 54 years old, has been enjoying the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 from the comfort of his home, appreciating the level of competition and the return of NHL players to the Olympic stage. He found the tournament to be the most competitive international event in over a decade, appreciating the high level of play exhibited by all participants.

However, Jagr has had to change his focus from playing to staying healthy. He admitted that he has gained a few kilograms recently and that discipline is the hardest part of staying active without the need to play. Although he still gets to skate whenever he can, Jagr made it clear that his exercise routine is now focused on staying healthy rather than game-ready.

“I do nothing else but eat and watch TV,” he said. This is the first Olympics with NHL players in a dozen years, and Jagr appreciated that.

“It’s the best tournament in the last 10-15 years, certainly because of the presence of NHL players,” he said. “The games are great. ”

Jagr’s legacy continues to be unmatched by any generation of players. He is second on the NHL’s all-time scoring list behind Wayne Gretzky and has two Stanley Cups from his early years with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

However, his tie to Kladno has always been a personal one. After returning to the team in 2018 after being released by the Calgary Flames, Jagr managed to juggle playing, ownership, and keeping the team’s finances in order. Although he did relinquish his management role last year, his impact on the team and the world of hockey in the Czech Republic is still immense.

Whether or not he will play this season is still up in the air. However, if this is indeed the end, Jagr will be saying goodbye to one of the most incredible careers that hockey has ever witnessed.