Russian hockey player Alexander Ovechkin, one of the most decorated players in the history of the sport, has earned the admiration of millions of Americans, US Special Envoy for Global Partnerships Paolo Zampolli said in an interview with TASS.

“Alexander Ovechkin is an obvious example of the extraordinary connection sport can create. A Russian athlete came to Washington and earned the admiration of millions of Americans through performance, longevity and dedication,” said the diplomat, who serves in both the White House and the US State Department.