Washington Capitals say Alex Ovechkin was asked to film a campaign ad for United Russia, the pro-Putin party, while back home this summer.

The team said he was asked, but did not confirm whether he agreed.

News reports describe the ad as a political endorsement.

The Washington Post and The Guardian report that the NHL star is shown in the ad.

ESPN also covered the team's statement.

Ovechkin has not publicly commented.

The request occurred during his visit in Russia this summer.

The ad is getting attention because United Russia supports President Vladimir Putin.

No further details have been given by the Capitals.