The year 2024 saw the passing of several iconic sports figures, who left lasting legacies in their respective fields.
From football greats to cricket pioneers and beyond, these individuals shaped the games they played and inspired countless fans and athletes.
As we honour their lives, let’s take a look back at their achievements and the indelible marks they left on sports history. Read part one here.
Sid Going (1943–2024)
Sport: Rugby Union
Legacy: Known as ‘The Little General,’ Going was a legendary scrumhalf for the New Zealand All Blacks. A vital part of the team in the 1960s and 70s, he brought unmatched leadership and tactical brilliance to the game. His dedication made him a revered figure in rugby history.
Karl-Heinz Schnellinger (1939–2024)
Sport: Football
Legacy: A German football icon, Schnellinger was celebrated for his versatility and composure on the pitch. He was instrumental in Germany's 1966 World Cup campaign and had a distinguished club career, most notably with AC Milan, where he won multiple European and domestic titles.
Bill Walton (1952–2024)
Sport: Basketball
Legacy: A two-time NBA champion, Walton was a dominant force in the 1970s and 80s. Renowned for his skills with the Portland Trail Blazers and Boston Celtics, he later became a beloved basketball analyst, sharing his deep knowledge and infectious enthusiasm for the game.
Parnelli Jones (1933–2024)
Sport: Motorsport
Legacy: The 1963 Indianapolis 500 winner, Jones was a fearless driver who pushed the limits of racing. Beyond his career as a driver, he became a successful team owner and a trailblazer in American motorsport innovation.
Jerry West (1938–2024)
Sport: Basketball
Legacy: Known as ‘The Logo,’ West was one of the NBA's all-time greats. As a player for the Los Angeles Lakers, he earned Finals MVP honours in 1969 despite being on the losing team. Later, he built championship teams as a visionary executive.
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Willie Mays (1931–2024)
Sport: Baseball
Legacy: One of baseball's all-time greats, Mays dazzled fans with his remarkable hitting, fielding, and base-running. A 24-time All-Star and two-time MVP, ‘The Say Hey Kid’ became a symbol of excellence and joy in the game.
Landry Nguémo (1985–2024)
Sport: Football
Legacy: A hardworking Cameroonian midfielder, Nguémo played for top clubs like Celtic and Bordeaux and represented Cameroon in multiple international tournaments. He was admired for his determination and professionalism.
Vic Seixes (1923–2024)
Sport: Tennis
Legacy: A Wimbledon champion in 1953 and a key figure in Davis Cup victories, Seixes was a pioneer in American tennis. His graceful playing style and sportsmanship left a lasting mark on the sport.
Norm Hewitt (1968–2024)
Sport: Rugby Union
Legacy: A rugged and passionate hooker, Hewitt represented the New Zealand All Blacks with pride. Off the field, he became a champion for animal welfare and mental health awareness, leaving a positive legacy far beyond rugby.
Joe Bryant (1954–2024)
Sport: Basketball
Legacy: Known as ‘Jellybean,’ Bryant had a successful career in the NBA and overseas. He was also the father of the legendary Kobe Bryant, playing a significant role in shaping his son’s basketball journey.
Craig Shakespeare (1963–2024)
Sport: Football
Legacy: A key figure in Leicester City's stunning 2016 Premier League triumph, Shakespeare later managed the team. He was respected for his tactical acumen and his contributions to English football.
Graham Thorpe (1969–2024)
Sport: Cricket
Legacy: An elegant left-handed batsman, Thorpe was a mainstay of England's Test team in the 1990s and early 2000s. His ability to perform under pressure made him a fan favourite.
Sven-Göran Eriksson (1948–2024)
Sport: Football
Legacy: A pioneering Swedish manager, Eriksson achieved success at Lazio and led England’s national team in multiple World Cup and European Championship campaigns. His calm demeanour and tactical expertise earned him global respect.
Marco Rosi - SS Lazio/Getty Images
Sol Bamba (1985–2024)
Sport: Football
Legacy: A towering defender, Bamba played for clubs like Cardiff City and represented the Ivory Coast internationally. His courageous battle with cancer inspired many beyond the football world.
Rebecca Cheptegei (1997–2024)
Sport: Athletics
Legacy: A Ugandan long distance and cross-country star, Cheptegei excelled in the longer distances, winning international medals and inspiring young athletes in her homeland. Her determination and grace made her a beacon of hope for many. She placed 44th in the marathon at the Paris Olympics.
Pete Rose (1941–2024)
Sport: Baseball
Legacy: MLB’s all-time hit leader, Rose was known as ‘Charlie Hustle’ for his relentless style of play. His career was marked by unmatched success and enduring controversy, making him one of the most polarizing figures in sports history.