Wayne Gretzky, often called “The Great One,” is not only the most famous hockey star in history, but also a figure full of hidden stories. Beyond his records and highlight reels, his journey includes quirky details, strange habits, and remarkable moments. Let’s explore the unexpected side of Wayne Gretzky that even die-hard fans might not know.
Wayne Gretzky
Wayne Gretzky started skating at age two, but he learned balance by sliding on his parents’ kitchen floor in socks.
Despite his Canadian roots, Gretzky’s first NHL jersey was for the Indianapolis Racers in the WHA, a team that folded after only eight games.
As a child, Gretzky wore hockey gloves that were too large, which he credited for improving his puck control later in life.
His childhood idol was not a hockey player but baseball legend Gordie Howe, showing his broad love for sports.
Wayne Gretzky signed his first autograph at age six, long before he played in the NHL.
He scored his first professional goal against Dave Dryden, the brother of the legendary Montreal goalie Ken Dryden.
Wayne Gretzky never liked weight training; he preferred stickhandling and skating drills, which shaped his unique playing style.
One of Gretzky’s rituals was to tuck only part of his jersey into his pants, a look many young players copied.
Although he is Canada’s hockey icon, Gretzky appeared in a British soap opera episode in the 1980s.
He created a breakthrough public buzz by being the first hockey player with his own breakfast cereal: “ProStars.”
Gretzky once said he avoided fighting on the ice because he believed goals always hurt opponents more.
He owned a large collection of movie memorabilia, including pieces from the Batman franchise, displaying his love for Hollywood culture.
Wayne Gretzky co-wrote a children’s book in the 1990s, focusing on hockey stories for young readers.
He maintained a meticulous pre-game ritual, which included eating a hot dog with mustard and onions before every match.
Even after retirement, Gretzky remained so influential that the NHL retired his jersey number 99 league-wide—something no other player achieved.
