Sports legends 2024: Farewell to Beckenbauer, Mays & Co.

Sports legends 2024: Farewell to Beckenbauer, Mays & Co.

A look back at the impressive careers of sports legends that left us in 2024.

The year 2024 will always be remembered for the sports world - not only because of the exciting competitions, but also because of the painful loss of some of the greatest athletes of all time. These legends not only shaped their sports, but also touched the hearts of millions. Here are the stories of five outstanding personalities who left us much too early.

Franz Beckenbauer: The emperor of football

On January 7, 2024, the unforgettable Franz Beckenbauer died at the age of 78. Born in Munich, he revolutionized the football game in Europe and led Germany to the triumph at the World Cup 1974. Beckenbauer was not only a brilliant player, but also a successful coach who led the national team to two World Cup finals and won the title in 1990. His innovative style of play, known as "Total Football", has inspired generations of players. Even after his active career, he remained an esteemed ambassador of football.

Kelvin Kiptum: A star that went out too early

The Kenyan Marathon World Record holder Kelvin Kiptum died on February 11, 2024 at the age of only 24 years. Kiptum caused a sensation in October 2023 when he broke the world record in Chicago with a time of 2:00:35. His sudden death in a car accident in his home country Kenya shocked the world athletics. He was considered one of the most promising athletes for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Thousands of mourners, including the Kenyan President, took part in his funeral and appreciated his extraordinary talent.

oj Simpson: The controversial superstar

On April 10, 2024, the former NFL star and actor Oj Simpson died at the age of 76. Known as "The Juice", he was one of the largest running backs in the history of the NFL and the first player to ran over 2,000 yards in one season. But his life was characterized by controversy, especially after the murder of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson, which led to one of the most spectacular processes in US history. After his acquisition, he was convicted of other offenses in 2008 before being released in 2017 on probation. His death after a long fight against cancer leaves a mixed heir.

Jerry West: The man behind the logo

On June 12, 2024, the basketball icon Jerry West died at the age of 86. West, which played in the NBA from 1960 to 1974, is often seen as one of the greatest players of all time. He was not only the first player to be included in the Basketball Hall of Fame, but also the silhouette of the official NBA logo. After his active career, he celebrated great success as the Los Angeles Laker's executive and won eight NBA championships. Until his death, he remained closely connected to basketball and advised many of today's stars.

Willie Mays: The Say Hey Kid

On June 18, 2024, the legendary baseball player Willie Mays died at the age of 93. Mays are considered one of the best all-round players in the history of baseball. During his 23-year career in the Major League Baseball, he was known for his extraordinary skills as a center field and his impressive statistics, including four MLB Homerun titles. May's influence extended far beyond the field, since he also played an important role in the fight against racism in sport. His legacy lives on in the hearts of baseball fans.