“A Great Trait to Have”: NHL Icon Wayne Gretzky Recalls Derek Jeter’s Long-lasting First Impression Before Teaming Up For ‘Greatness Wins’

During his baseball career, Derek Jeter met some massive legends. These include sporting superstars and even celebrities. One of those many people is none other than NHL legend Wayne Gretzky. The iconic ice hockey legend has known Jeter for many years. Most recently, Gretzky recalled his first meeting with the New York Yankees legend and said that Jeter has not changed.

The two sporting icons have gone from friends to business partners, and co-founded sports apparel brand Greatness Wins together. This most recent statement by Gretzky showcases his understanding of his longtime friend. 

NHL legend Wayne Gretzky says that Derek Jeter is still a humble man

Derek Jeter is known for his simple personality and determination to achieve greatness. Furthermore, he works hard to do his best. Most recently, his longtime friend and business partner Wayne Gretzky recalled their first meeting. Gretzky said that they first met in 1996 and that Jeter had his future ahead of him. But the NHL icon went further, mentioning that the Yankees legend has not changed as a man. He concluded his answer by calling Jeter a tremendous man and commending his humility. Their brand Greatness Wins shared a video of Gretzky’s answer on Instagram.

In the video, Gretzky said, “I first met Derek back in probably 1996, he was a young man, with a whole future ahead of him. Um, he was the exact same person at 21 years old, as he is today. Humble is a great trait to have. When you’re a great athlete you don’t have to tell people how good you were and he doesn’t say too much. He’s a tremendous man.” 

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They co-founded Greatness Wins together, and clearly have a lot of respect for each other. Gretzky clearly understands Jeter as a person. But the respect goes both ways as the Yankees legend has also said positive things about Gretzky.

Jeter considers Gretzky one of the most consistent athletes ever

In a similar interview, Derek Jeter was asked about Wayne Gretzky. The Yankees legend had nothing but positive things to say about his longtime friend. Jeter said that the NHL legend is the truly great one. He further stated that in terms of consistency, it would be difficult to find someone greater than Gretzky. The two sporting icons clearly have a lot of respect and admiration for one another. 

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What do you think about Wayne Gretzky’s recollection of his first meeting with Derek Jeter? Kindly share your thoughts in the comments below.