Wayne Gretzky is a retired Canadian professional ice hockey player, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Born on January 26, 1961, in Brantford, Ontario, he began playing hockey at a young age and quickly showed exceptional talent. Over his 20-year career in the NHL, he played for teams like the Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, St. Louis Blues, and New York Rangers. Gretzky holds numerous records, including the most goals and assists in NHL history. He won four Stanley Cups with the Oilers and earned the Hart Trophy as the league's most valuable player nine times. After retiring in 1999, he became a coach and executive, continuing to influence the game of hockey.