Iconic Moment of a Young Derek Jeter Spraying Champagne on a Close Teammate Goes Viral 26 Years Later

A sportsman is probably the one person who knows how to celebrate the moments in the best possible way. And if that sportsman is Derek Jeter, then one can easily learn a thing or two about how to celebrate the big moments. Although he doesn’t play the game anymore, the former New York Yankees star’s iconic celebration with a teammate has been doing rounds on the internet lately.

This particular incident dates back to the 1996 MLB season when the Yankees ended their 15-year title drought in the Bronx. Notably, Jeter’s arrival at the Pinstripes clubhouse was a beginning of a new Yankees era in Major League Baseball. But when talking about the viral celebration, Jeter’s champagne celebration with fellow Yankee and legendary pitcher Mariano Rivera has become a talking point for netizens.

The year 1996 was the beginning of everything for Derek Jeter and Mariano Rivera

Since Jeter and Rivera were still very young at the time, making it to the spring training of 1996 was the only goal for the two. Soon as the duo made it to the Spring Training together, they did not stop after that. Jeter ended the season by winning Rookie of the Year. Whereas, Rivera ended the season by allowing only one run in 14.1 innings, and out of the eight games that he pitched. And the Yanks won 7 of them.

Read More: 5-Time World Series Champion Derek Jeter Once Gave the Best Advice From His Personal Experience as a Player and Teammate

In short, both proved their importance to the team and led it to a championship win after 15 years. They formed a bond during their debut year in 1995, which is still strong even after they got retired. The picture that went viral after 26 years is of Jeter pouring champagne over Rivera after winning the AL pennant.

Notably, they were ecstatic about the big win. When talking about their entire career, Rivera ended his career becoming the greatest closer of all time, while Jeter ended his career as one of the best shortstops in MLB history. 

What are the fans saying about the best friends duo?

After watching this iconic picture, the Yankees fan heaped praise on their two of most favorite ballplayers. While one user called them, “The very Best. best,” another being a die-hard Red Sox fan couldn’t stop himself from fawning over Jeter and Rivera, “Even though I am a die-hard Boston Red Sox fan; I love these two Yankees. Class acts.”

“An extremely-loaded, talented team .”

“Beginning of a Dynasty”

“Jeter was a sensation that year. Rivera was already great: And this was before his cutter!”

“Two of the very best”

“GREAT PHOTO OF TWO GREAT YANKEE PLAYERS WINNING ANOTHER TITLE!”

Watch this story: Every New York Yankees record broken by MLB icon Derek Jeter

Needless to say, the fans cannot stop loving the picture of Rivera and Jeter celebrating their first pennant together with huge smiles on their faces.

What is the best memory you have of Derek Jeter? Let us know in the comments section!