"9 years no alcohol/opioids": Red Wings' 4x Stanley Cup winning legend celebrates 9 years of sobriety

Detroit Red Wings legend Darren McCarty announced that he has achieved nine years of sobriety from alcohol and opioids.

The four-time Stanley Cup winner posted on X:

"9 Years No Alcohol/Opiods. Just know that you can do it too. Thanks to all who have and continue to be part of my journey"

Enforcer McCarty spent most of his NHL career with the Red Wings. With his physical play style, he contributed significantly to their Stanley Cup victories in 1997 1998, 2002 and 2008.

After retiring from hockey in 2009, McCarty struggled with alcoholism and opioid addiction.

“I’ve been drinking since I was 12 or 13 years old.That was acceptable in the hockey circles, it’s just culturally what was accepted,” McCarty has said about his struggles (as per hellodiem.com).

After hitting rock-bottom, McCarty entered rehab and has maintained his sobriety for nine years now.

"There have been a lot of different versioons of me at places, but where I am right now and what I'm doing, I found my mission to help people," McCarty said as per FOX 17.

He also openly talks about struggles with addiction and support others in need.

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Fans react to Red Wings legend Darren McCarty's announcement of sobriety for nine years

Darren McCarty’s announcement of sobriety prompted an outpouring of support and congratulations from fans online.

Many took it as an inspiration, and some even shared their own personal experiences. One fan tweeted:

"Congrats Darren!! 9 years is an enormous accomplishment. Thanks for being an inspiration for others who are fighting."

Another wrote:

"HELL YES! Love to hear it. Keep it up, Darren."

Here are some more fan reactions on X to the former Red Wings man's announcement:

"Greetings from Finland, probably northest fan you have in the world Keep on going DMac," one fan wrote.

"Love it bro! Going to celebrate 7 yrs in May. Just the green and grown for me!," another fan wrote.

"Atta boy Grinder! Keep it up, you have the whole hockey world behind you to share and celebrate your success and even in a weak moment, we'll be here with you then too!," a user commented.

"Way to go DMac!! I finally got off alcohol 3 weeks ago and every day is hard but I feel better and better each day. Thanks for being a good example!," another user wrote.

Now, McCarty co-hosts the popular Woodward Sports Network podcast and YouTube channel.