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

The team said he was asked, but would not say whether he accepted.

News reports call the ad a political endorsement.

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

ESPN also reported on the team's statement.

Ovechkin has made no public comment.

The request occurred during his time at home in Russia this summer.

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

No further details were provided by the Capitals.