“She’s just taken over the country”: Wayne Gretzky applauds Caitlin Clark’s worldwide influence and growing legacy in women’s sports | NHL News

Wayne Gretzky opens up about the impact of modern athletes—particularly WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark

In a recent episode of the New Heights podcast hosted by NFL brothers Jason and Travis Kelce, hockey legend Wayne Gretzky joined as a special guest—and made headlines for more than just his thoughts on the NHL playoffs. Amid a spirited conversation about his storied career and the current Stanley Cup race, Gretzky turned his attention to an emerging icon in a different sport: WNBA star Caitlin Clark.

Wayne Gretzky highlights Caitlin Clark’s influence beyond basketball

Known as “The Great One” in hockey circles, Wayne Gretzky is admired not just for his on-ice brilliance but also for his perspective on sports and life. That was on full display during the podcast when he acknowledged Caitlin Clark’s soaring popularity and the broader effect she’s had on women’s sports.“Look at Caitlin Clark—how she’s just taken over the country, for that matter, maybe the world,” Gretzky said. “She’s encouraged so many young girls now to participate in sports, whether it’s basketball, or soccer, volleyball.”

This kind of praise from one of the most respected figures in sports history underscores just how transformative Clark’s presence has become. From sold-out arenas to record-breaking TV ratings, her influence has extended well beyond the basketball court. She’s helped shift how fans, media, and even other athletes view women’s sports.Gretzky didn’t stop at praising Clark’s star power. He also touched on the timeless values sports instill in young people—many of which are embodied by Clark’s journey through college and now professional basketball.“My dad used to always say the greatest thing about sports is that you learn so much about real life. You learn how to be unselfish, you learn how to be dedicated, you learn how to work hard, you learn how to win, and you learn how to pick yourself up off the ground when you lose—and that’s life.”Also Read: Wayne Gretzky weighs in on Sam Reinhart’s injury and its impact on the Panthers’ Stanley Cup hopesAs Caitlin Clark begins her second season with the Indiana Fever, the accolades keep coming. Just days before Gretzky’s comments, NBA superstar LeBron James also praised Clark publicly, calling attention to her elite talent and growing platform. Together, these endorsements signal a cultural shift: women’s sports are not just gaining attention—they’re earning lasting respect.