Sergei Fedorov was a huge part of the Detroit Red Wings teams that won three Stanley Cups in six years. On Monday night, his jersey will be retired by the Red Wings. Ahead of the special occasion, Fedorov published a heartfelt letter to Detroit — and fans love it.
When Sergei Fedorov arrived in Detroit in 1990, it marked the beginning of what would become one of the most dominant dynasties in modern NHL history. The Red Wings went on to make 25 consecutive playoff appearances, win four Stanley Cups, and reach six Stanley Cup Finals. While the later successes came without Fedorov, he played a key role in building the winning culture that defined the franchise.
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Sergei Fedorov Red Wings stats
With 1,179 points in 1,248 NHL games, Sergei Fedorov became the first Russian-born player to reach 1,000 career points. He remains the only player in NHL history to win both the Selke Trophy and the Hart Trophy in the same season, accomplishing that feat in 1994. Fedorov also appeared in six All-Star Games and won the Ted Lindsay Award.
The Red Wings will honor Fedorov by retiring his No. 91 jersey on Monday night before their game against the Carolina Hurricanes. He will become the ninth player in franchise history to receive the honor, joining legends such as Terry Sawchuk, Gordie Howe, Nicklas Lidstrom, and Steve Yzerman.
Heartfelt letter
As a thank-you to the organization and the city of Detroit, Sergei Fedorov published a heartfelt letter.
“The Red Wings took care of me like I was part of the family, and I felt that throughout all my years in Detroit,” Fedorov wrote, also reflecting on the team’s 1997 Stanley Cup victory.
“That journey we went through — we could not have done it without the fans coming to our games. Good or bad, win or lose,” he added.
Fans deeply moved
Fans were deeply moved by the message.
“Thanks for making me cry! I was at the ’97 parade — and all the rest. Hockeytown!” one fan wrote on X.
“One of the greatest to ever wear the Winged Wheel. Congratulations, Sergei — it’s long overdue,” another commented.
“I am not going to be crying tomorrow — you are! OK, I will be. So happy for #91,” a third fan wrote.
You can watch the video below.
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