July 04

Events - Sports

1939day.year

Lou Gehrig, recently diagnosed with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, informs a crowd at Yankee Stadium that he considers himself "The luckiest man on the face of the earth", then announces his retirement from major league baseball.

Lou Gehrig, suffering from ALS, delivers his emotional 'Luckiest Man' speech at Yankee Stadium and announces his retirement from baseball.
Lou Gehrig was a legendary first baseman for the New York Yankees whose ironman streak and batting prowess made him one of the sport’s greatest players. In 1939, at age 36, Gehrig was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a progressive neurodegenerative disease. On July 4, he addressed the crowd at Yankee Stadium and proclaimed himself 'The luckiest man on the face of the earth.' His emotional farewell highlighted his gratitude toward teammates, fans, and the game of baseball. The speech quickly became an iconic moment in sports history, symbolizing courage in the face of adversity. Gehrig’s legacy endures, and ALS is now commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease in his honor.
1939 Lou Gehrig Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis Yankee Stadium baseball
2004day.year

Greece beats Portugal in the UEFA Euro 2004 Final and becomes European Champion for first time in its history.

Greece defeated Portugal 1–0 in the UEFA Euro 2004 Final to win its first major international football title.
On July 4, 2004, Greece shocked the football world by beating hosts Portugal 1–0 in the UEFA Euro 2004 Final held in Lisbon. The only goal was scored by Angelos Charisteas with a header from a corner in the 57th minute. Under coach Otto Rehhagel, the Greek team employed disciplined defense and tactical acumen throughout the tournament. Their underdog victory resonated across Europe as one of the biggest upsets in international football history. The triumph sparked celebrations across Greece, uniting the nation in pride. The 2004 squad is remembered for its unity, strategic brilliance, and the inspiration it provided to smaller footballing nations.
Greece Portugal UEFA Euro 2004 Final
2015day.year

Chile claims its first title in international football by defeating Argentina in the 2015 Copa América Final.

Chile claimed its first international football title by beating Argentina in the 2015 Copa América Final.
On July 4, 2015, Chile emerged victorious over Argentina in penalties to secure its first major international football championship at the Copa América. The match in Santiago ended 0-0 after extra time, leading to a dramatic shootout that Chile won 4-1. Star goalkeeper Claudio Bravo saved two crucial penalties, while captain Arturo Vidal converted the winning spot-kick. The triumph sparked nationwide jubilation, with fans flooding the streets in celebration of a historic achievement. It marked the culmination of years of investment in Chilean youth development and tactical innovation. The victory also secured Chile's spot in the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup. The result cemented the legacy of Chile's "Golden Generation" of players.
2015 football 2015 Copa América