Andrei Markov, born on December 20, 1978, in Russia, is a professional hockey player known for his impressive career with the Montreal Canadiens. He began his journey in professional hockey by playing for Khimik Voskresensk in the now-defunct International Hockey League back in 1995.
Markov quickly caught the attention of scouts with his exceptional skills on the ice. His talent and dedication led to him being drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in the sixth round of the 1998 NHL Entry Draft.
Markov made his NHL debut with the Canadiens during the 2000-2001 season. Over the years, he established himself as a key player on the team's defense, earning numerous accolades and becoming one of the top defensemen in the league.
In 2008, Markov had the honor of representing his country and winning gold at the Ice Hockey World Championships as a member of the Russian squad. His stellar performance on the international stage further solidified his reputation as a world-class defenseman.
Off the ice, Markov has been in a long-term relationship with real estate agent Carolina Montes. Despite spending many years playing for the Montreal Canadiens, he did not become a Canadian citizen until 2010.
Throughout his career, Markov has been admired for his leadership qualities and strong work ethic. He served as an alternate captain for the Canadiens during the 2014-2015 season, alongside fellow player PK Subban.
After more than a decade with the Montreal Canadiens, Markov announced his retirement from professional hockey in 2020. His legacy as one of the greatest defensemen in Canadiens history still lives on, and he remains a beloved figure among fans and teammates alike.
Since retiring from the NHL, Markov has been involved in various charitable endeavors and continues to stay connected to the world of hockey. His impact on the sport and the community is lasting, and his contributions both on and off the ice will always be remembered.