STARS OF WONDER: SPORT
SUNDAY MIRROR
Golfer, died September 25, aged 87. One of the greatest and most influential players in history, he won more than 90 tournaments worldwide, including seven majors. His fans were known as “Arnie’s army” and he helped promote the game in the TV age. He was the first golfer to make $1m from playing.
In his words: “Putting is like wisdom – partly a natural gift and partly the accumulation of experience.” Boxer, died September 30, aged 25. Dundee boxer Mike Towell died in hospital after being knocked down twice during his televised bout with Welsh fighter Dale Evans in Glasgow.
His promoter Tommy Gilmour said: “He was Iron Mike to the end, he kept fighting till the last.” Boxer, died November 9, aged 76. The Derbyshire-born pig farmer was affectionately known as the Swadlincote Swineherd. He won amateur honours at light-heavyweight and, in 1966, fought Ali. He lost, but the US legend was impressed by his prowess. He claimed the British heavyweight title in 1969, lost the belt to Henry Cooper but won it back in 1971 with a victory over Joe Bugner, 10 years his junior. After retiring, he bought his Knockout fish and chip shop in Coventry – and Ali opened it. His career ended in 1972 after 58 wins and 13 losses. He suffered with dementia. Ex-sparring partner Bunny Johnson said: “He was always fit and always brave.” England footballer, died September 26, aged 89. Footballer, died March 24, aged 68. The Dutch soccer great revolutionised the game as the personification of “total football”.
He made his name as a forward with Ajax and Barcelona, before going on to manage both clubs, and was European footballer of the year three times.
A genius attacking midfielder, he scored 290 goals in 514 games and was famed for the Cruyff turn – a skill still used by today’s greatest players.
He won five manager of the year awards and was credited with developing Barcelona’s La Masia academy. He also ran the Johan Cruyff Foundation, helping disadvantaged kids all over the world. He had been suffering with lung cancer for a year.
In his words: “Playing football is very simple but playing simple football is the hardest thing there is.” County to Sheffield Wednesday for £34,500. The ex-milkman scored 104 goals in 193 appearances for the Magpies. He made six appearances for England, scoring three times. He also played for Aston Villa and Hull City.
Later, he was captain of Zambia, becoming one of the few footballers to have played for two countries.