Is Mike Fisher Retired from Hockey and When Did He Stop Playing
Yes, Mike Fisher is retired from professional hockey. The former NHL center played his final game on April 11, 2017, with the Nashville Predators, ending a 15-season career that began in 1999 with the Ottawa Senators. He officially announced his retirement in 2018, citing a desire to prioritize family life after his wife, country music star Carrie Underwood, gave birth to their first child. Fisher's last full season was 2016-17, during which he recorded 10 goals and 17 points in 82 games. His decision to step away came after he cleared unrestricted free agency and chose not to sign with another team, effectively closing the chapter on his NHL career. He finished with 264 goals and 348 assists for 612 points in 1,157 regular-season games. Fisher also added 46 goals and 45 assists in 131 postseason contests, cementing his legacy as a two-time Stanley Cup finalist with the Predators. For a detailed career timeline, see his official NHL profile Mike Fisher NHL Player Page.
Fisher's retirement was not accompanied by a formal press conference but rather a quiet decision communicated through his representatives. The Nashville Predators organization acknowledged his departure by noting his contributions to the franchise, where he served as captain for multiple seasons. His jersey number 37 was not formally retired, but he remains a fan favorite in Nashville. The Predators have since moved on, but Fisher's impact on the team's culture during their 2017 Stanley Cup Final run is well documented. His career earnings in the NHL are estimated to exceed $60 million in salary alone, not including endorsements and off-ice ventures. This financial foundation allowed him to transition smoothly into post-hockey life without the pressure of immediate employment. The decision to retire early also aligned with broader trends in the NHL, where players increasingly prioritize longevity and health over extended careers.
Mike Fisher's Post-Retirement Activities and Business Ventures
After retiring from hockey, Mike Fisher has focused on family life and private business interests rather than pursuing a high-profile media career. He and Carrie Underwood maintain residences in Nashville and Los Angeles, and he is frequently spotted supporting her tours and philanthropic events. Fisher has not taken on a formal coaching or front-office role in the NHL, choosing instead to stay out of the spotlight. His post-hockey income streams are believed to include real estate investments and private equity, though specific details are not publicly disclosed. He occasionally appears in interviews discussing his love for the sport but has no active affiliation with any team. The lack of a public post-retirement role distinguishes him from some peers who transition into broadcasting or coaching immediately. His financial stability post-hockey is supported by smart career management during his playing days.
Fisher's business interests are largely kept private, but his lifestyle suggests continued wealth accumulation through disciplined investing. The couple's combined net worth is estimated to be in the hundreds of millions, with Carrie Underwood's music career being the primary public income source. Mike Fisher's own financial activities are not tied to any publicly traded company or major endorsement deal. He has been seen at various charity events, particularly those connected to children's hospitals and music education programs. His low-key approach to retirement aligns with a growing number of NHL players who prioritize privacy after leaving the game. The absence of a public business portfolio does not indicate inactivity but rather a preference for behind-the-scenes wealth management. For general context on athlete retirement planning, see resources from the