The year 2023 brought not only thrilling victories and crushing defeats on the playing field but also the sombre news of the passing of several beloved sports figures. These were individuals who not only graced the arenas and stadiums with their talent and determination but also left an indelible mark on the hearts of fans and the very fabric of their respective sports. As we close the chapter on another year, it’s time to remember those who left us, to celebrate their lives and achievements, and to acknowledge the void they leave behind.
Bobby Charlton
Bobby Charlton, an English football icon who survived a plane crash that decimated a Manchester United team destined for greatness to become the heartbeat of his country’s 1966 World Cup-winning team died aged 86. An extravagantly gifted midfielder with a ferocious shot, Charlton was the leading scorer for both United (249 goals) and England (49 goals) for more than 40 years until being overtaken by Wayne Rooney. Charlton was also renowned for his humility, discipline and sportsmanship. He was never sent off in 758 appearances for United from 1956-73 or 106 internationals for England from 1958-70.
Charlton played with George Best and Denis Law in the so-called “Trinity” that led United to the 1968 European Cup after surviving the 1958 Munich crash that wiped out the celebrated “Busby Babes” team. He won three English league titles at United, and one FA Cup. Charlton’s England scoring record stood for 45 years until Rooney scored his 50th goal for the national team in September 2015. After retiring in 1973, Charlton went into coaching and founded a youth scheme that included Beckham among its participants. After brief spells in charge of Preston, Wigan and Irish side Waterford, Charlton returned to United in 1984 as a director and persuaded the board in 1986 to appoint Ferguson, who delivered 38 trophies during nearly 27 years in charge. Knighted in 1994 by Queen Elizabeth II, Charlton remains a mainstay at Old Trafford, featuring alongside Best and Law on a statue outside United’s stadium.
George McGinnis
George McGinnis, the “Big Mac” of basketball, left the court for the last time on December 14, 2023. As news of his passing spread, a wave of nostalgia swept through the NBA community, remembering a scorer so smooth he seemed to glide past defenders with effortless grace. His iconic jumpshot, a lightning-quick release with an unerring accuracy, was a weapon that froze opponents and thrilled fans. McGinnis’ impact transcended statistics, his elegant game and quiet confidence inspiring a generation of players. While his later years were marked by personal struggles, his on-court brilliance remains etched in basketball history, forever earning him a place among the legends of the game.
Pat McCormick
Pat McCormick was an American diving legend who dominated the sport in the 1950s. She is the only diver in history to win gold medals in both the 3-meter springboard and 10-meter platform events at two consecutive Olympic Games (1952 and 1956). Her grace, athleticism, and courage made her a role model for young athletes everywhere. McCormick’s legacy lives on through the countless divers she inspired, and her name is forever etched in the history books of Olympic diving. She died of natural causes on March 7, 2023, aged 92.
Gianluca Vialli
Gianluca Vialli, a man synonymous with footballing grace and a tenacious spirit, left the pitch for the last time on January 6, 2023. Diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2017, he battled the disease with the same determination he displayed on the field, inspiring others with his courage and optimism. Vialli’s legacy, however, stretches far beyond medical challenges. As a player, he adorned the jerseys of some of Europe’s most prestigious clubs like Juventus and chelsea, leaving a trail of goals and trophies in his wake. His iconic partnership with Roberto Mancini, both on and off the pitch, epitomized a potent blend of skill and leadership.
Marlene Bauer Hagge
Marlene Bauer Hagge, a pioneer in women’s golf, sadly passed away on May 16, 2023, at the age of 89. She left behind a remarkable legacy, not only as a talented athlete but also as a co-founder of the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA). Hagge’s golfing prowess blossomed at a young age. By 13, she was already competing on the national scene. Her talent and fiery spirit caught the attention of other top female golfers, and in 1950, at just 16 years old, Hagge became one of the 13 founders of the LPGA. Throughout her career, Hagge won 26 LPGA tournaments, including the prestigious 1956 LPGA Championship. Her powerful swing and fierce determination earned her a reputation as one of the game’s most exciting players.
Rosi Mittermaier
Rosi Mittermaier, the golden heroine of German alpine skiing, left an enduring mark on the world before peacefully passing away on January 4, 2023, at the age of 72. Nicknamed “Gold-Rosi” for her dazzling performance at the 1976 Winter Olympics in Innsbruck, she captured two gold medals (downhill and slalom) and a silver (giant slalom), nearly achieving the incredible feat of winning all three women’s Alpine skiing events. Mittermaier’s charisma and genuine charm extended far beyond the slopes. Even after retiring at the young age of 25, she remained a beloved figure, actively promoting sports, writing children’s books, and advocating for environmental causes.
Brooks Robinson
The baseball world lost a legend with the passing of Brooks Robinson. “Mr. Oriole,” as he was affectionately known, stood as a pillar of grace and grit for the Baltimore Orioles and the sport as a whole. His 16 Gold Glove awards at third base stand as a testament to his defensive mastery, while his leadership and unwavering dedication to the Orioles community cemented his place as a beloved Baltimore icon. He leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond baseball, one of sportsmanship, integrity, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His presence will be deeply missed, but his impact on the game and the city he called home will forever be etched in baseball history.
Jim Brown
Jim Brown, the legendary NFL running back, passed away on May 18, 2023 at the age of 86. He will be remembered not just for his athletic prowess but also for his activism and fight for social justice. Brown’s dominance on the field was undeniable. He holds numerous NFL records, including most rushing yards in a single season and most rushing touchdowns in a career. His powerful running style and elusiveness left defenders grasping at air, earning him the nickname “The Brown Bullet.”
Doyle Brunson
Doyle Brunson, one of the most influential poker players of all time and a two-time world champion, died aged 89. Brunson, called the Godfather of Poker and also known as “Texas Dolly,” won 10 World Series of Poker tournaments — second only to Phil Hellmuth’s 16. He also captured world championships in 1976 and 1977 and was inducted into the Poker Hall of Fame in 1988. He wrote a book called “Super System” in 1979, which was one of the first books to delve into poker strategy and created a lasting impact that helped bring many others to the game.
Iron Sheikh
Former WWF Heavyweight Champion and WWE Hall of Famer Iron Sheik (Hossein Khosrow Ali Vaziri) has passed away aged 81. A former amateur wrestler in his native Iran, The Iron Sheik remains the only Iranian champion in WWE history and was one of the mainstays during professional wrestling’s boon in the 1980s. Sheik portrayed a villainous character and his rivalry with Hulk Hogan elevated the latter to the superstar status. Sheik was a master of the suplex, he is best known for his crippling Camel Clutch (rear chin lock) manoeuvre. The Iron Sheik was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame by his long-time rival and former partner, Sgt. Slaughter in 2005.
Gone Too Soon
Tori Bowie
Tori Bowie, tragically found dead on April 23, 2023 at the young age of 32, was a force to be reckoned with on the track. The American sprinter, born and raised in Sand Hill, Mississippi, left her mark on the world of athletics with her incredible speed and fierce determination. Bowie’s journey began not with sprinting, but with basketball. It was only in high school, due to her small school’s requirement for athletes to participate in both sports, that she discovered her talent for track and field. This unexpected turn ignited a passion that would propel her to Olympic glory.
Windham Rotunda
Better known by his ring name Bray Wyatt, was an American professional wrestler who captivated audiences with his haunting persona and captivating storytelling. Wyatt’s career in WWE spanned over a decade, marked by numerous championship reigns and unforgettable characters. He rose to prominence with his eerie swamp-dwelling persona, Husky Harris, before reinventing himself as the enigmatic Bray Wyatt. Wyatt’s most iconic creation was “The Fiend,” a demonic alter-ego with a grotesque mask and supernatural abilities. This chilling character propelled him to the pinnacle of WWE, capturing the Universal Championship twice. Sadly, Rotunda passed away in August 2023, aged 36, leaving a void in the wrestling world.
Ken Block
Ken Block was a true force in the world of motorsport and beyond. He was a pioneer in drifting, a talented rally driver, and a creative visionary who brought car culture to the mainstream through his Gymkhana videos. His infectious enthusiasm, innovative spirit, and dedication to his craft inspired countless fans and fellow drivers worldwide. His loss is deeply felt by the automotive community and all who admired his incredible talents and passion. He died in a snowmobile accident on January 2, 2023, aged 55.
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