Russian President Vladimir Putin can now add star ice hockey player to his famous list of manly achievements.

The 62-year-old strongman leader led his team to a 18-6 victory in an exhibition match in Sochi featuring retired National Hockey League (NHL) stars.

Mr Putin scored eight of the 18 goals himself in the Saturday match, held to celebrate 70 years since victory in World War II, reports said.

Mr Putin is an avid ice hockey player, and plays regularly with government officials and businessmen, The Guardian said.

The robust performance he put up at the match put to rest rumours about his health, which surfaced after he disappeared from public view for 10 days in March.

However, his performance led to some sceptical comments, and jokes on social media.

The BBC noted that Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev sat out the friendly in the stands.

Mr Putin is known for his love of judo, extreme sports and the outdoors.

He has been photographed riding horses barechested, driving race cars, boarding fighter jets and shooting tigers with tranquilliser darts.