Alexander Ovechkin announced the death of his father

Mikhail Ovechkin, father of famous Russian hockey player Alexander Ovechkin, has died at the age of 71.

"Today my father passed away ... I thank everyone for their support, but I ask you to be understanding and not disturb my family at such a difficult time for us! Thank you," the hockey player said in his social networks.

Earlier, Alexander Ovechkin flew to Moscow due to his father's illness.