Introduction
Marc-André “Flower” Fleury, one of the most beloved and accomplished goaltenders in NHL history, recently concluded a 21-season career marked by Stanley Cups, personal milestones, and enduring legacy. At age 40, Fleury officially retired following the 2024–25 season. Yet, in a sentimental twist, he’s returning on a short-term professional tryout (PTO) for one last appearance with the Pittsburgh Penguins—where his storied journey began. This article delves into his retirement, current status, age, and lasting impact.
1. Career Highlights & Final Retirement Decision
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Final NHL Games: Fleury, aged 40, played his last NHL games during the 2024–25 season with the Minnesota Wild. His final regular-season appearance came on April 15, 2025, earning his 575th career win in overtime after entering the game in relief. He then made his last playoff appearance in Game 5 of the first-round series, stopping six shots before ultimately bowing out in Game 6.
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Retirement Announcement: Following his final NHL season, numerous teams offered one-year contracts to entice him back. However, Fleury remained committed to retirement. He did briefly participate with Team Canada at the 2025 IIHF World Championship—his ultimate hockey send-off—before closing the chapter on ice entirely.
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Legacy Recap: Across his career, Fleury tallied 575 regular-season wins (second in NHL history), played over 1,050 games, accumulated 76 shutouts, and earned iconic moments including a Vezina Trophy (with Vegas in 2020–21) and three Stanley Cups with Pittsburgh.
2. Age & Status: Is He Retired?
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Current Age: Born November 28, 1984, Fleury is currently 40 years old.
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Retirement Status: Fleury reaffirmed, “I’m still retired,” despite returning for a brief preseason stint with the Penguins. This symbolic comeback is intended as a farewell gesture, rather than a resumption of his career. Marc-André Fleury retirement.
3. The Return: Penguins PTO & Ceremonial Farewell
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Professional Tryout Deal: On September 12, 2025, the Pittsburgh Penguins signed Fleury to a professional tryout contract to allow him to join practice and play one period in their preseason game against the Columbus Blue Jackets—a full-circle moment that honours his legacy with the franchise.
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From Fleury: He stated, “I’ll play a period … I’m still retired.” He wanted to return “where it all began” as a nod to his roots, not to disrespect the Wild, where he ended his career.
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Organizational Sentiment: Penguins GM Kyle Dubas expressed honor in welcoming Fleury back, recognizing not just his hockey legacy but also his resonance with fans and the community.
4. Emotional Farewells & Legacy Moments
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Montreal Tribute: In one of his final regular-season appearances, Fleury received a heartfelt standing ovation and handshakes from the Montreal Canadiens—a memorable tribute in his home province.
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Family Emotions: His wife, Veronique, shared the emotional rollercoaster of his final season. She described how their children watched him take the ice in his farewell game, capturing the profound personal impact of his transition from the rink to family life.
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Reflections on the Game: In a reflective GQ interview, Fleury acknowledged his mentor role and the generational shift in the NHL—joking that he’s often “closer to their parents than to these guys” on the younger roster. Marc-André Fleury retirement.
5. Summary Table
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 40 (born November 28, 1984) |
| Retired? | Yes—officially retired after 2024–25 season |
| Final NHL Win | 575th win on April 15, 2025 |
| Playoff Farewell | Last playoff appearance Game 5, Series vs. Vegas |
| Return | PTO with Penguins; one-period preseason appearance |
| Legacy Highlights | 3× Stanley Cup winner, Vezina Trophy, 2nd all-time in wins |
| Family & Farewell | Emotional send-offs; support widely acknowledged |
6. FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: Did Marc-André Fleury retire?
Yes, Fleury officially retired at the conclusion of the 2024–25 NHL season after 21 seasons in the league.
Q2: How old is he now?
Fleury is currently 40 years old, born on November 28, 1984.
Q3: Is he coming out of retirement?
No, he remains retired. His current return is a ceremonial one-period appearance on a professional tryout contract with the Penguins—intended as a farewell gesture.
Q4: What are his career achievements?
He won three Stanley Cups, earned the Vezina Trophy (with Vegas), recorded 575 regular-season wins, 76 shutouts, and played over 1,050 NHL games.
Q5: Why is he returning on a PTO?
Fleury wanted to complete his career by returning to the place where it started—Pittsburgh—as a symbolic and emotional moment for fans, teammates, and himself.
Conclusion
Marc-André Fleury’s storied career is built on athletic excellence, playful personality, and heartfelt connection—on and off the ice. Though officially retired at 40 after a final impactful season, Fleury’s brief return with the Penguins allows fans and teammates to celebrate his legacy in symbolic closure. His journey—from first overall draft pick to NHL legend—epitomizes hockey’s full-circle moments.
