DETROIT, June 25 -- Dominik Hasek, who captured the first Stanley Cup of his illustrious career earlier this month, Tuesday announced his retirement and plans to return to his native Czech Republic.
Many believed Hasek would retire after he refused to commit to another season at the Stanley Cup championship celebration in downtown Detroit last week. Fans chanted "One more year," and several teammates said they were trying to coax Hasek into returning to the Red Wings.
"Winning the Cup has been everything I could ask for. During the celebration I just wanted to have fun. I didn't want to talk about it," said Hasek at a news conference Tuesday.
He now has decided instead to begin a new phase in his life.
"I do not feel I have enough fire in me to compete again at the level I expect of myself."
He said he intends to spend more time with his family and to concentrate on his business interests. He owns a line of clothing products in the Czech Republic entitled "Dominator Clothing," and is looking to expand to North America.
Hasek spentmost of his career with the Buffalo Sabres before demanding a trade following the 2000-01 season. He won a Stanley Cup in his first season with Detroit, adding it to six Vezina Trophies as the NHL's top goaltender and back-to-back Hart Trophies as Most Valuable Player in 1997 and '98.
While not closing the door on a possible return, Hasek seemed in no hurry to come back. He said three years ago that the 1999-2000 season would be his last, but later changed his mind.
"I think this is for good, but I already made a mistake a few years ago," Hasek said. "I never say never, but let's be realistic. I'm 37 and I don't expect to play hockey again."
Hasek follows legendary Red Wings Coach Scotty Bowman into the sunset.
Bowman, the winningest coach in NHL history, announced his retirement moments after winning his record ninth Stanley Cup, when Detroit beat the Carolina Hurricanes in five games.
"He left at the top and now I can say the same thing," Hasek said.
The Red Wings needed to know of Hasek's decision before July 1, when the free agent signing period starts. Detroit could pursue a free agent goalie such as Curtis Joseph, whose Toronto Maple Leafs were defeated by Carolina in the Eastern Conference finals.
Hasek made his NHL debut with the Chicago Blackhawks during the 1990-91 season before being traded to the Sabres in August 1992.
He owns a 288-189-80 record with 61 shutouts and a 2.23 goals against average in 581 games.
In 97 playoff games, Hasek was 53-39-12 with a 2.03 GAA.NEWLN:|end| Content: 15000001 15031000 15031001