8 Months After His Demise, American Tennis Great Billie Jean King Pays Homage to Soccer Journalist for His Humongous Contribution to Women’s Sport

The 2022 men’s FIFA World Cup was one for the ages. It is considered to be one of the greatest sporting events of all time. The tournament saw plenty of high-quality matches and intense encounters, along with Lionel Messi‘s majestic attributes. However, alongside the footballing spectacle, there was a tragic story that took center stage at the World Cup.

American journalist Grant Wahl was among the journalists who visited Qatar for covering the World Cup. However, eight days after his 49th birthday, on 10th December 2022, he passed away after suffering a catastrophic rupture in his aorta. Recently, tennis icon Billie Jean King remembered the tragic incident that took place months ago.

Billie Jean King remembers the deceased journalist

Grant Wahl was more than just a journalist for Americans. His contribution to US soccer is immense, and unlike many prominent journalists, he gave equal importance to both men’s and women’s teams. In fact, the American soccer legend, Briana Scurry had famously said, “Before we got on the map, Grant was there.” Wahl’s services were recognized not just by football players, but also by American sports giants from other sports.

Amidst the ongoing Women’s Soccer World Cup, the Americans can feel Wahl’s absence. Billie Jean King took to Twitter to remember the deceased journalist. She said, “Remembering world-class journalist and reporter @GrantWahlduring the first @FIFAWWC without him. A champion of women’s soccer who advocated for the sport’s athletes to receive the media coverage (and pay) they deserved.”

Grant Wahl’s death was a tragic point for all American sports enthusiasts. It was a dark day in American sports history. The entire country came together to pay respect to him after his shocking demise.

READ MORE: A Day After LeBron James’ Son’s Sudden Collapse, Women’s Tennis Legend Billie Jean King Stands by His Family in Testing Times

Grant Wahl’s death stunned the Americans

The American soccer fans held Grant Wahl in very high regard. All the big clubs from American soccer and renowned American celebrities were united in their support of Wahl and his family. The internal club rivalries were put to rest as rivals joined hands to pay respect to one of America’s finest. From Angel City FC to New York Red Bulls, all major American soccer clubs paid homage to the late journalist.

Wahl was a true devotee of American soccer. His absence has left a hole in the US Soccer fraternity and can be felt widely in the ongoing women’s World Cup.

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