September 24

Born in 1871 in Bebington, England, Lottie Dod became the youngest ever Wimbledon ladies' singles champion at just 15. She won the coveted title five times, showcasing exceptional skill and composure on the court. Transitioning her talents, Dod excelled in golf, finishing runner-up in the British Ladies Amateur Championship. At the 1908 London Olympics, she secured a silver medal in archery, demonstrating her remarkable versatility. Her athletic achievements across multiple sports made her a pioneer for women in competitive athletics. Dod's legacy endures as one of the most accomplished female athletes of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Max Decugis won eight singles titles at the French Championships between 1903 and 1914, a record in the pre-Open Era. He also claimed multiple doubles and mixed doubles titles, showcasing his versatile play. A veteran of eight Davis Cup ties, he helped cement France’s reputation in international tennis. Known for his powerful serve and strategic net play, Decugis influenced future generations of French players. His legacy endures as one of the pioneers of competitive tennis in Europe.

Lawson Robertson emigrated from Scotland to the U.S. and competed in three Olympic Games, earning a silver medal in the high jump in 1908. After retiring as an athlete, he coached the U.S. track and field team at multiple Olympics, shaping training methods. He was known for his technical expertise and dedication to athlete development, producing several national champions. Robertson served as coach at Georgetown University, influencing American athletics for decades. His contributions to high jump technique and coaching left a lasting impact on the sport.

Born in Lavelanet, Gustave Garrigou turned professional in 1904 and quickly made his mark in European road racing. In 1911, he claimed the overall victory at the Tour de France through strategic riding and endurance. Garrigou also achieved multiple stage wins and podium finishes, demonstrating remarkable consistency. Known for his climbing strength and tactical acumen, he competed with the sport’s early legends. After retiring, he remained involved in cycling, promoting the sport until his passing in 1963.

Born in Havana, Mike González became the first Cuban-born player to appear in a Major League game, debuting with the Cincinnati Reds in 1912. A versatile outfielder, he was known for his speed, defensive skills, and leadership on the field. After his playing career, González served as a coach and manager in both the U.S. minor leagues and Cuban winter leagues. He advocated for Latin American players, helping pave the way for future generations in professional baseball. González’s pioneering career earned him a place in the Cuban Baseball Hall of Fame.

Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Armour served in World War I before emigrating to the United States. He won three major championships, including the U.S. Open in 1927 and the PGA Championship in 1930. Armour's smooth swing and consistent play earned him widespread acclaim on the PGA Tour. After retiring from competition, he became a popular golf instructor and sportscaster. His legacy endures through the Tommy Armour golf clubs and his contributions to golf education.

Born in 1906, Józef Nawrot became known for his goal-scoring prowess in the Polish football league. He played for leading Polish clubs and helped his teams to league championships. Nawrot earned over twenty caps for the Poland national team and competed in the 1938 FIFA World Cup. Renowned for his speed and finishing skills, he was counted among the top forwards of his era. After retiring, he contributed to football as a coach and mentor to younger players. He passed away in 1982, remembered as a pioneer of Polish international football.

Born in 1924, Bocharova rose to prominence at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics where she won two silver medals and three bronzes. She was known for her graceful floor routines and strong technical skills. Her performances contributed to the Soviet Union's emergence as a gymnastics powerhouse during the Cold War era. After retiring from competition, she worked as a coach and judge, helping to train a new generation of gymnasts. Bocharova's legacy endures in Ukraine and the gymnastics community worldwide. She passed away in 2020 at the age of 96.

Born in 1931 in Surrey, England, Michael Parkes trained as an engineer before entering motorsport. He made his Formula One debut in 1959, driving for teams such as Ferrari and BRM. Parkes achieved his best World Championship finish with a second place at the 1967 British Grand Prix. He found greater success in sports car racing, winning endurance events such as the 1000 km of Monza. Known for his technical feedback and smooth driving style, he became a respected driver-engineer. Parkes retired from racing after a serious crash in 1967 and later worked in automotive development until his death in 1977.

Born in 1932 in Rosario, Argentina, Miguel Montuori moved to Italy to join Fiorentina in 1955. As an attacking midfielder, he was celebrated for his vision, dribbling skills, and goal-scoring ability. Montuori helped Fiorentina win the Serie A title in 1956–57 and the European Cup Winners' Cup in 1961. He earned two caps for the Italian national team, scoring once. After retiring in 1961 due to injury, he transitioned to coaching roles in lower-division clubs. Montuori's technical finesse left a lasting impression on both Italian football and Fiorentina's history. He passed away in 1998, remembered as one of the club's most gifted midfielders.

Born in 1934 in Scotland, Tommy Anderson began his professional career in the Scottish Football League. He played as a defender and midfielder for clubs such as Morton, Partick Thistle, and East Fife. Anderson was known for his versatility, reliability, and leadership on the field. After retiring as a player, he embarked on a managerial career in the Scottish lower divisions. He guided multiple clubs with a focus on youth development and tactical discipline. Anderson remained involved in the game as a scout and mentor until his retirement. He passed away in 2018, leaving a legacy of dedication to Scottish football.

John Mackey played college football at Syracuse University before being drafted by the Baltimore Colts in 1963. He earned six Pro Bowl selections and set a then-record for receiving yards by a tight end in 1964. Mackey helped lead the Colts to victory in Super Bowl V. He co-founded the NFL Players Association in 1972 and served as its first president, advocating for players' rights. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992, he left a lasting legacy on professional football.