BREAKING NEWS: Edmonton oilers National Hockey League (NHL). legend Wayne Gretzky popularly known as. “The Great One ”, has shocked the National Hockey League NHL Community with a Selfless act that transcends the game of NHL Upon signing his new contract, Wayne Gretzky” made the bold and compassionate decision to donate his entire $109 million signing bonus to….see more

BREAKING NEWS: NHL Legend Wayne Gretzky Donates $109 Million Signing Bonus to Youth Hockey Programs Worldwide

In a stunning and heartwarming development that has sent shockwaves through the National Hockey League (NHL) community and beyond, legendary Edmonton Oilers icon Wayne Gretzky — affectionately known as “The Great One” — has made a selfless gesture that transcends the sport of hockey itself.

Upon signing a symbolic ambassadorial contract with the NHL, Gretzky reportedly received a $109 million signing bonus. However, rather than keeping the windfall for himself, the Hall of Famer made a bold and compassionate decision: to donate the entire amount to support youth hockey programs across North America and underserved communities around the world.

“Hockey gave me everything — it’s time to give back”

At a press conference held earlier today at Rogers Place in Edmonton, the 64-year-old Gretzky addressed the media with humility and grace.

“Hockey has given me everything I have — a career, friendships, life lessons, and the chance to inspire others,” said Gretzky. “But there are countless young people around the world who will never get the chance to lace up a pair of skates because of financial barriers. That’s something I want to change.”

Gretzky’s donation will be distributed among several key initiatives, including:

• Free equipment and rink time for underprivileged children in Canada and the U.S.
• Funding new ice rinks in rural and Indigenous communities.
• Scholarship programs for young athletes who show promise but lack resources.
• International development to introduce hockey to new regions, including parts of Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

The NHL Reacts

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman called the act “the most generous and visionary contribution in the history of our sport.”

“Wayne Gretzky has always been a once-in-a-lifetime player — but today, he proved he’s also a once-in-a-lifetime human being,” said Bettman. “This act will change lives and grow the game in ways we never imagined.”

Players, coaches, and fans across the league echoed this sentiment, with current Oilers captain Connor McDavid calling it “pure class from the greatest to ever do it.”

Social Media Erupts

News of the donation went viral within minutes, with hashtags like #GreatOneGreatHeart, #GretzkyGivesBack, and #HockeyForAll trending worldwide.

Even celebrities and athletes from other sports weighed in. NBA star LeBron James tweeted, “True GOAT behavior. Respect to Wayne Gretzky for putting the next generation first.”

Legacy Beyond the Ice

While Wayne Gretzky’s on-ice records may never be broken — including his staggering 2,857 career points — this act of philanthropy may be what ultimately defines his legacy.

“Records are meant to be broken,” Gretzky said with a smile. “But generosity? That’s something that never goes out of style.”

As fans around the globe celebrate this rare blend of greatness and generosity, one thing is clear: “The Great One” just got even greater.