Jonathan Toews has been the team captain of the Chicago Blackhawks for over ten years but he missed the entire 2020-2021 season due to illness.
Now he announces on the club's social media that he is taking time out indefinitely due to long-term covid and a chronic illness that affects the immune system.
"It has been a challenge to play with the symptoms.
In recent weeks it has reached a point where I have no choice but to step back and concentrate on getting well.
I am grateful for the patience and support of my teammates, coaches and the entire Blackhawks organization," the 34-year-old wrote in a statement.
Toews has won three Stanley Cup titles with the club he has belonged to since the 2007/2008 season.
The 34-year-old has also won a WC gold and two Olympic golds with Canada.
MORE NHL: Here is Zibanejad's two-goal half-time (February 7):
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Mika Zibanejad hero of the match after two goals in the NHL