May 24

Robert Garrett was born in 1875 in Baltimore, Maryland, and attended Princeton University, where he excelled in athletics. At the 1896 Athens Olympics, he became the first American to win Olympic medals, claiming gold in both discus and shot put. Garrett’s success helped spark U.S. interest in international athletic competition and the Olympic movement. He competed again in Paris in 1900 and later pursued a career in banking and public service. His pioneering achievements remain a landmark in American sports history.

Suzanne Lenglen won her first Wimbledon singles title at just 15, announcing her arrival on the world stage. Over the next decade, she claimed six Wimbledon crowns and four French Championships. Known for her agility, powerful strokes, and stylish attire, she brought flair and athleticism to women's tennis. Lenglen also earned Olympic gold medals in 1920 in singles and doubles. Her rivalry with Helen Wills captivated sports fans on both sides of the Atlantic. In 1926 she turned professional and toured internationally, popularizing the sport. Lenglen's impact extended beyond her victories, as she transformed tennis into a spectator event.

José Nasazzi began his career with Club Atlético Bella Vista before becoming a star defender at Nacional in Montevideo. As captain of the national team, he led Uruguay to Olympic gold in 1924 and 1928. In 1930, Nasazzi captained the side that won the inaugural FIFA World Cup on home soil. Known as 'El Gran Mariscal' for his leadership and defensive skill, he was revered by teammates and opponents alike. After retiring as a player, he coached clubs in Uruguay and abroad, sharing his tactical insights. Nasazzi's sportsmanship and pioneering role in early international football remain celebrated in Uruguay and beyond.

Lionel Conacher excelled in football, lacrosse, hockey, baseball, and boxing during the 1920s and 1930s. He played professional lacrosse and was voted Most Valuable Player of the National Hockey League in 1928. Conacher won the Grey Cup with the Montreal AAA Winged Wheelers in 1931. After retiring from sports, he entered politics as a member of the Ontario legislature, advocating for youth and athletic programs. Voted Canada's greatest athlete of the first half of the 20th century, he became a national icon. His versatility and competitive spirit set a standard for Canadian sportsmanship. Conacher's legacy continued through his family's involvement in athletics.

He rose to prominence at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics, winning gold in the triple jump and setting a new world record in the long jump. Nambu had previously earned a bronze medal in the long jump at the 1928 Amsterdam Games. After retiring from competition, he worked as a sports journalist, sharing his insights on athletics. He also coached and mentored younger Japanese jumpers, influencing future generations. Nambu's achievements helped elevate Japan’s presence in international track and field during the interwar period. His legacy endures as one of his country’s most celebrated athletes.

Jimmy Demaret was the first golfer to win the Masters Tournament three times, securing titles in 1940, 1942, and 1947. Renowned for his colorful attire and amiable personality, he helped popularize professional golf in the postwar era. Demaret also won multiple PGA Tour events over his storied career. After retiring from competition, he became a prominent golf broadcaster and course designer. His approachable style endeared him to fans and fellow players alike. Demaret’s impact on the game is honored by his induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame.

Joe Abreu made his MLB debut with the Cincinnati Reds in 1938 as a versatile infielder and outfielder. His professional career was interrupted by military service when he enlisted in the U.S. Army during World War II. After the war, Abreu returned to baseball, playing in the minor leagues and mentoring younger players. He was known for his disciplined approach at the plate and his leadership in the clubhouse. Following his retirement from playing, he remained active in his community, coaching youth baseball programs. Abreu is remembered for balancing a commitment to his country with his passion for the sport.

Born in Saint-Brieuc, France in 1937, Maryvonne Dupureur emerged as one of France’s top 800-meter runners. At the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, she won the silver medal, setting a French national record. She also competed in European Championships, earning recognition for her competitive spirit. After retiring from athletics, Dupureur became an educator, teaching physical education and mentoring young athletes across France. Her legacy endures as an inspiration for French middle-distance runners.

Born in Johannesburg, Ali Bacher made his first-class debut at 19 and quickly established himself as a talented right-handed batsman. He represented South Africa in domestic competitions during the nation’s international isolation and captained several unofficial tours. After retiring from play, he transitioned to administration and became the chief executive of the South African Cricket Union. Bacher was instrumental in negotiating South Africa’s readmission to the International Cricket Council in 1991. Under his leadership, the national team resumed Test cricket after a 21-year ban and went on to rebuild its global reputation. In recognition of his contributions, he received honors such as the ICC Order of Merit and remained a respected voice in world cricket.

Born in Joensuu, Finland, Hannu Mikkola began his rallying career in the early 1960s and quickly rose through the national ranks. He achieved international success with victories in the RAC Rally and other major events while driving for Ford and later Audi. In 1983, at age 41, Mikkola claimed the World Rally Championship title in the groundbreaking Audi Quattro, showcasing the power of four-wheel drive. Known for his smooth driving style and technical precision, he won 18 WRC events over two decades. Mikkola’s pioneering achievements helped transform rally racing and inspired future generations of drivers. He was inducted into the Rally Hall of Fame and is remembered as one of the sport’s true legends.

Growing up in Santa Maria da Feira, Jesualdo Ferreira began his career as a midfielder before making his mark as one of Portugal's most successful coaches. He won three consecutive Primeira Liga titles with FC Porto between 2006 and 2009 and added trophies at Sporting CP and Panathinaikos. Known for his tactical acumen and adaptability, Ferreira has managed teams across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. His analytical approach and emphasis on discipline have earned him respect from players and peers alike. Over five decades in coaching, he has become a mentor to younger managers and remains active in football strategy and punditry.

Born in Leningrad in 1946, Irena Szewińska moved to Poland shortly after and became one of the greatest athletes in track and field history. She claimed a total of seven Olympic medals across four Games from 1964 to 1976, including gold in the 200m and 400m. Szewińska broke world records in sprints and long jump, showcasing her versatility and longevity. She was the first woman to hold world records in the 100m, 200m, and 400m events simultaneously. Beyond her athletic achievements, Szewińska served as a member of the International Olympic Committee and advocated for sports development in Poland. Her legacy endures as a symbol of excellence and resilience.