Wayne Gretzky is not just a hockey player — he is a sporting phenomenon, a cultural icon, and the most statistically dominant athlete any major professional sport has ever produced. Revered worldwide as “The Great One”, Gretzky transformed ice hockey from a fast-paced North American game into a globally followed professional sport. His unmatched vision, intelligence, humility, and leadership reshaped the way hockey is played, coached, marketed, and remembered.
Across two decades in the NHL, Wayne Gretzky shattered records that still stand today, won championships, inspired generations of players, and built a personal brand that transcended sports. Even decades after retirement, he remains the ultimate benchmark for excellence in hockey history.
Quick Bio
- Full Name: Wayne Douglas Gretzky
- Nickname: The Great One
- Date of Birth: January 26, 1961
- Age: 65 years (as of 2026)
- Birthplace: Brantford, Ontario, Canada
- Nationality: Canadian
- Ethnicity: White (Ukrainian–Polish descent)
- Religion: Christian
- Profession: Former NHL Player, Coach, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist
Physical Measurements
- Height: 6 ft 0 in (183 cm)
- Weight: 185 lbs (84 kg)
- Eye Color: Blue
- Hair Color: Light Brown
- Build: Lean Athletic
Early Life and Childhood Genius
Wayne Gretzky was born into a modest, close-knit family in Brantford, Ontario. His father, Walter Gretzky, worked for Bell Canada but was also a lifelong hockey enthusiast who understood the fundamentals of skating, balance, and puck control better than most coaches of his era. Walter built a backyard rink behind their home, and by the age of two, Wayne was already skating and handling a puck.
What separated young Wayne from other talented children was not just physical ability but mental processing speed. Even at age six, he could anticipate where the puck would go before it got there — a skill that would later define his legendary “office” position behind the opponent’s net. He consistently scored hundreds of goals per season in youth leagues, forcing leagues to split him into age groups just to maintain competitive balance.
Parents & Siblings
Gretzky’s family created an environment built on discipline, humility, and encouragement rather than pressure. His parents never demanded greatness — they simply encouraged joy in playing the game.
- Father: Walter Gretzky
- Mother: Phyllis Leone Gretzky
- Siblings: Kim, Keith, Glen, Brent Gretzky
Rise to Stardom
Wayne Gretzky entered the professional scene at just 17 years old when he joined the World Hockey Association (WHA). When the WHA merged with the NHL in 1979, Gretzky immediately became the face of the Edmonton Oilers and quickly transformed the league with his unprecedented offensive production.
Within his first NHL season, Gretzky won the Hart Trophy as league MVP — a feat unheard of for a rookie. He would go on to win the award nine times in his career, including eight consecutive seasons.
NHL Career Overview
| Team | Years | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Edmonton Oilers | 1979–1988 | 4 Stanley Cups, dynasty creation |
| Los Angeles Kings | 1988–1996 | Expanded NHL popularity in the USA |
| St. Louis Blues | 1996 | Playoff contender |
| New York Rangers | 1996–1999 | Final seasons |
Records and Achievements
- Most NHL career points: 2,857
- Most goals: 894
- Most assists: 1,963
- 9× Hart Trophy winner
- 4× Stanley Cup Champion
- Jersey #99 retired league-wide
Playing Style and Intelligence
Gretzky was not the fastest or strongest skater, but he was the smartest. His vision allowed him to see plays developing seconds before others. He created passing lanes where none existed and used angles rather than brute force to dominate defenders. His positioning behind the net became famously known as “Gretzky’s Office.”
Wife & Children
Wayne married actress Janet Jones in 1988. The couple has five children, and their family remains highly respected within sports and entertainment communities.
Business, Media & Philanthropy
Beyond hockey, Gretzky built a massive business empire including wine brands, sports academies, restaurant chains, broadcasting contracts, and charity foundations. He actively supports children’s hospitals, youth sports programs, and educational initiatives.
Net Worth
- Estimated Net Worth: $250–300 million
- Main Income: Endorsements, business ventures, broadcasting, investments
Social Media
- Instagram: @waynegretzky
- Twitter/X: @WayneGretzky
Trivia
- Only NHL player with 200+ points in four seasons
- Statue outside Rogers Place, Edmonton
- Number 99 retired league-wide
- Called “The Great One” globally
FAQs
Who is Wayne Gretzky?
Wayne Gretzky is the greatest ice hockey player in history.
Why is Wayne Gretzky so famous?
Because he holds more NHL records than any player and changed the sport globally.
Is Wayne Gretzky married?
Yes, to Janet Jones.
What is Wayne Gretzky’s net worth?
Estimated between $250–300 million.