Marc-Andre Fleury: A Legendary Goaltender’s Life On and Off the Ice
Marc-Andre Fleury is among the most beloved and enduring goaltenders in NHL history. Over a storied 21-season career, he has left an indelible mark not just on the rink, but in the hearts of fans, teammates, and family. This article delves into key aspects of his life, focusing on his wife, Stanley Cups, kids, his time with the Pittsburgh Penguins, and his contract and return developments.
Early Life & Rise to NHL Stardom
Marc-Andre Fleury was born on November 28, 1984, in Sorel-Tracy, Quebec, Canada. He grew up in a hockey environment—his father André was involved in hockey in his youth, and his mother is France Fleury. He also has a sister named Marylène.
From early on, Fleury showed promise between the pipes. He played in junior leagues, eventually being selected 1st overall in the 2003 NHL Draft by the Pittsburgh Penguins. That marked the beginning of a deep connection with Pittsburgh, where he would establish much of his legacy.
Wife: Véronique Larosée (Veronique Fleury)
Early Relationship & Marriage
Marc-Andre Fleury’s partner in life is Véronique Larosée (often spelled “Veronique Larosee” in media). The two reportedly knew each other from a young age, growing up in the same vicinity in Quebec. They began dating as teenagers and developed a long-term relationship. In July 2012, Fleury and Véronique married in Montreal.
Véronique is not simply “the spouse of a star athlete”—she has her own ventures and influence. She previously co-owned a children’s clothing brand, Alex et Estelle, which underscores her interest in fashion and entrepreneurship. In addition, she has been a steady emotional and familial anchor through the highs and lows of Fleury’s career.
Role in Fleury’s Career & Public Moments
Over the years, Véronique has maintained a supportive presence, sometimes offering glimpses into the personal side of life as Fleury’s partner. In interviews, she has reflected on key moments in Fleury’s career, such as his critical stop in Game 7 of the 2009 Stanley Cup Final, which remains a highlight for many fans. She has also shared heartfelt posts and photos with their children, particularly during emotionally significant games.
When Fleury approached retirement, the family’s emotional journey was evident, with Veronique describing how hard it was to give up the day-to-day identity of being an active NHL star’s partner. Through all of this, she has remained a steady presence in the background of the spotlight.
Kids of Marc-Andre Fleury
Family has always been central to Fleury’s life. He and Véronique have three children: two daughters and one son.
Estelle & Scarlett
The daughters are:
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Estelle (the eldest)
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Scarlett (the middle daughter)
They both have grown up immersed in hockey culture, often wearing their father’s jersey and participating in on-ice rituals. Their mother often shares glimpses of them supporting their father’s games and training.
Son: James
Their youngest child, James, was born in March 2019. Reports say James weighed about 9.3 pounds at birth. He rounds out the family as the only son.
As of recent years, the children have been actively involved in their father’s career — reading lineups, attending games, and experiencing in-game moments firsthand. Veronique has spoken about how it’s a joy to see the kids watching his highlights and understanding parts of what he has achieved.
Three Stanley Cups with the Penguins
One of the defining chapters of Fleury’s career was his time with the Pittsburgh Penguins, during which he captured three Stanley Cup championships.
Cup Wins & Key Moments
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2009 Stanley Cup: Fleury played a central role in the Penguins’ first championship in years. His performance in Game 7 included a crucial late stop on Nicklas Lidstrom (Detroit Red Wings), which remains an iconic moment.
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2016 Stanley Cup: After moving to the Penguins’ backup role, Fleury still served as a valuable veteran presence.
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2017 Stanley Cup: Fleury once again earned a ring with Pittsburgh before being selected in the expansion draft.
These championships cemented his legacy in Penguins lore. Even today, fans remember him both for those runs and for his connection to the city and the franchise.
Influence & Legacy in Pittsburgh
During his 13 seasons with Pittsburgh (2003–2017), Fleury achieved multiple team records. For example:
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All-time Penguins leader in games played (691)
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Penguins’ wins leader (375)
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Penguins’ shutouts leader (44)
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Lowest goals-against average among Penguins goalies
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Second in save percentage for Penguins (minimum games played)
He became a foundational figure for the franchise, bridging eras and mentoring younger players. His nickname, “Flower” (a translation from “Fleury”) became iconic in Pittsburgh and across the league.
Even after his departure, he has maintained a place in Penguins lore. In 2025, Fleury signed a professional tryout contract (PTO) to play one final preseason period with Pittsburgh, a symbolic full-circle moment for both player and city. He said he did not want to disrespect Minnesota (his last full team) by claiming retirement as a Penguin, but rather to celebrate where it all began.
Contracts, Retirement & Return
End of Regular Playing Career & Retirement
Fleury officially retired from full-time NHL play following the 2024–25 season. His career stats are remarkable:
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575 regular-season wins — second only to Martin Brodeur in NHL history.
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1,051 games played — also second all time among goalies.
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76 shutouts — tied for 10th in NHL history.
His last team was the Minnesota Wild. He posted a record of 14–9–1, 2.93 goals-against average, and a .899 save percentage in his final season (26 appearances).
Retirement for Fleury did not mean disappearing from the spotlight, though. The emotional and familial weight of stepping away from a lifelong vocation was much discussed publicly by both him and his wife.
The 2025 Tryout Contract & Final Appearance
In September 2025, in a gesture to “finish where everything started,” Fleury accepted a professional tryout contract (PTO) with the Pittsburgh Penguins. This allowed him to skate with the team, practice twice, and play one period in a preseason game against the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Fleury has been explicit that this is not a full comeback. He maintains that he is still retired — the PTO is more of a ceremonial home-coming and farewell. He emphasized that he did not want to re-sign as a Penguin or undermine Minnesota, his last team.
When he suits up in Pittsburgh again, it will be a moment charged with emotion, not a continuation of his career. Friends, former Penguins teammates (Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang), and fans are expected to be there to celebrate.
Beyond the Numbers: Character, Influence & Legacy
Personality & Off-Ice Presence
Fleury’s impact extends beyond his statistics. Known for his kindness, sense of humor, and humility, he’s respected throughout the league. His masks often displayed floral motifs (a play on his name) and the fleur-de-lis symbol. He also included “EFGT” on his masks to honor his four grandparents.
There was a notable incident in 2023: the NHL forbade Fleury from wearing a custom mask honoring his wife’s Indigenous heritage on Native American Heritage Night. Despite fines risk, he wore it during warm-ups (though he did not start the game). That incident underscored how important personal identity and conviction are to him.
Mentorship & Role Model
During his later years, Fleury often took on mentorship roles — guiding younger goaltenders, offering insight, and maintaining a steady locker-room presence. His longevity and consistency made him a model for handling pressure, transitions, and public life.
Legacy in the NHL & to Fans
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He sits second all time in wins and games played among NHL goaltenders — an achievement few can rival.
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His Penguins tenure is etched into franchise history, and his final farewell with Pittsburgh adds narrative symmetry.
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To fans, he is not just “Flower the goalie” but also a figure who remained grounded, family-oriented, and genuine — characteristics that resonate in a sport often driven by numbers.
