September 26

Born in New York in 1868, Roosevelt emerged as a leading figure in early women’s tennis. She won the U.S. National Women’s Singles Championship in 1890, showcasing her elegant baseline game and competitive spirit. Partnering with her sister Grace, she claimed multiple national doubles titles and helped popularize the sport for women. Her athletic achievements challenged gender norms at the turn of the century and inspired greater female participation in sports. As a niece of President Theodore Roosevelt, she balanced athletic fame with social prominence, leaving a lasting mark on American tennis history.

Ralph Earnhardt (1928–1973) was an American stock car racing driver who competed in NASCAR's early years. Known for his fearless driving style, he secured multiple regional and national victories and earned a reputation as a formidable competitor. A driving force in Southern racing circuits, Earnhardt helped popularize stock car racing in the 1950s and 1960s. He was a member of the National Motorsports Press Association Hall of Fame. His legacy endures through his son Dale Earnhardt, a seven-time NASCAR champion, and grandson Dale Earnhardt Jr. Earnhardt's contributions laid the groundwork for one of racing's most storied families.

Alec Hurwood (1902–1982) was an Australian cricketer who played as a left-arm medium-pace bowler for Queensland in domestic first-class cricket. He made his first-class debut in the late 1920s and was selected to represent Australia in Test matches during the early 1930s. Hurwood's disciplined line and length earned him key wickets in domestic competitions. After retiring, he contributed to the sport as a coach and mentor to younger players in Queensland. His dedication helped develop Australia's cricket talent pool. Hurwood is remembered for his sportsmanship and lasting impact on the game.

He was born in 1948 in Zahara de los Atunes and came from a family with deep bullfighting roots. Paquirri made his formal debut as a matador in the late 1960s and quickly gained acclaim for his technical skill and courageous performances. He became one of Spain’s most popular bullfighters, known for his precise footwork and calm demeanor in the ring. His marriage to fellow bullfighting family member Carmen Ordóñez made them a celebrated couple in Spanish society. Paquirri was the father of future matadors Francisco Rivera and Cayetano Rivera Ordóñez, extending his family’s legacy. In 1984, he suffered a fatal goring by the bull Avispado during a spectacle in Pozoblanco. His untimely death led to increased focus on safety measures in the bullfighting world.

He was born in 1928 in Ujungpandang (now Makassar) and overcame a bout of leprosy early in life to pursue football. Ramang excelled as a forward for PSM Makassar and became the Indonesian national team’s top scorer, renowned for his agility and powerful shooting. His performances in regional competitions helped elevate Indonesian football during the 1950s and 1960s. After retiring as a player, he served as a coach for several local clubs, sharing his experience with younger generations. Ramang’s charismatic presence on and off the pitch made him a beloved figure among fans. He passed away in 1987, but his legacy as a trailblazer in Southeast Asian football endures.

He was born in 1929 and began his playing career with Dinamo Zagreb, where he distinguished himself as a versatile midfielder. Zebec earned over 60 caps for the Yugoslav national team, including appearances at the 1952 Olympics (silver medal) and the 1954 FIFA World Cup. After retiring as a player in the early 1960s, he shifted to coaching and achieved remarkable success across Europe. His most notable achievement came with Bayern Munich, whom he led to their first Bundesliga title in 1969–70. He also guided Hamburger SV to domestic cup victories and was admired for his rigorous training methods. Zebec’s tactical innovation and leadership left a lasting impact on both Yugoslav and European football before his passing in 1988.

He was born in 1931 in Tallinn and showed early talent in chess, becoming one of Estonia’s leading players in the 1950s. Pitksaar won the Estonian Chess Championship in 1957 and again in 1962, demonstrating strategic prowess and deep positional understanding. He represented Estonia in several Soviet Team Chess Championships, facing rivals from across the USSR. Known for his disciplined playing style and endgame technique, he also mentored younger players later in his career. Outside of tournament play, he contributed to local chess clubs and helped promote the game nationwide. Pitksaar passed away in 1995, remembered for his dedication to Estonian chess during a challenging era.

Born in 1969 in Montreal, Marianna Komlos began her career as a fitness champion and model. She transitioned to professional wrestling in the late 1990s with World Wrestling Federation (WWF), where she performed as Mrs. Cleavage and BellaDonna. Komlos entertained audiences with her strength-based performances and on-screen partnerships with wrestlers like Val Venis. She also appeared on fitness magazine covers and promoted bodybuilding events. After retiring from wrestling in 2001, she continued to coach and mentor athletes. Komlos passed away in 2004, remembered for her contributions to women's wrestling and fitness.

Byron Nelson (1912–2006) was one of professional golf's greatest champions. In 1945, he achieved an unprecedented 11 tournament victories in a single season, a record that still stands. He won five major championships, including the Masters and the PGA Championship. After retiring from competition, Nelson served as a respected golf instructor and broadcaster. He donated generously to charitable causes and lent his name to the annual AT&T Byron Nelson tournament. Nelson's sportsmanship and consistency left a lasting legacy in the world of golf.

Terry Newton (1978–2010) was a versatile English rugby league professional. He played as a hooker and loose forward for clubs including Leeds Rhinos, Wigan Warriors, and Bradford Bulls. Newton earned over 20 caps for Great Britain and captained the England national team in international competitions. His dynamic defense and leadership on the field made him a respected figure in the rugby community. After retiring, Newton faced personal challenges, and his tragic death in 2010 prompted discussions on athlete welfare. He is remembered for his contributions to English rugby league and the passion he brought to the sport.

Seánie Duggan was an iconic hurler from Galway renowned for his exemplary skill at wing-back. Debuting in the 1940s, he helped Galway secure their first All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship in 1956, ending a decades-long drought. A multiple-time All-Star award winner, Duggan was admired for his leadership, fitness, and tactical acumen on the field. After retiring, he became a respected coach and mentor, nurturing future generations of hurlers. His contribution to hurling earned him a place in the Gaelic Athletic Association Hall of Fame. Duggan's legacy endures in Galway's hurling heritage.

Jim Boeke excelled as an offensive tackle at Southern Methodist University, earning All-Southwest Conference honors. Drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1960, he played with the Rams and later the Washington Redskins over seven seasons. Known for his strength and versatility on the line, Boeke contributed to both collegiate and professional teams. After retiring as a player, he turned to coaching at the high school and college levels in Texas, shaping young talent for decades. His impact extended to mentoring aspiring athletes and serving as a scout. Boeke's dedication to the sport made him a respected figure in American football circles.