‘This moment feels quite surreal’: Jonathan Toews announces retirement

Winnipeg Jets' Jonathan Toews (19) defends against the San Jose Sharks during first period NHL action in Winnipeg, Thursday, April 16, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods

Jonathan Toews is calling it a career.

The Winnipeg Jets forward announced at a news conference Friday that he is saying goodbye to the sport of hockey.

“This moment feels quite surreal,” Toews said during his retirement ceremony.

Toews, who grew up in the St. Vital area, led the Chicago Blackhawks to three Stanley Cup championships, and also played a key role in a pair of Olympic gold medals in 2010 and 2014.

Toews returned to the NHL in 2025-26 after a two-season hiatus due to health-related issues and signed a one-year deal with his hometown club.

He played in all 82 games last season, tallying 11 goals and 18 assists.

He was named a finalist for the NHL’s Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, which is awarded annually “to the player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey.”

More details to come.