From football pitches to boxing rings, ice rinks to racing circuits, athletes whose names lit up arenas and inspired fans everywhere passed away, leaving behind legacies that echo far beyond their achievements.
Peter Rufai
The year also saw the passing of African football icons. Peter Rufai, Nigeria’s celebrated goalkeeper and Super Eagles captain, died in July after a brief illness. His leadership between the posts during Nigeria’s rise on the global stage made him a national sporting hero.
Christian Chukwu
The former Super Eagles coach died on 12 April 2025 at the age of 74.
He was one of those Nigerian footballers who both played and coached the national team.
Chukwu captained the Super Eagles to their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 1980 and later led the Super Eagles as head coach in the early 2000s.
Abubakar Lawal
The Nigerian forward, who played for Uganda’s Vipers Sports Club, tragically passed away on 23 February, 2025, following a motorcycle accident on Entebbe Road in Kampala, Uganda.
Lawal, who died at the age of 29, was reportedly heading to a club training session after dropping off a friend at Entebbe Airport when the accident occurred.
Diogo Jota
One of the most shocking losses came in July, when Diogo Jota, the 28-year-old forward who starred for Liverpool and Portugal, died in a car crash in Spain.
Just days after celebrating a Premier League title and weeks after his wedding, Jota’s life ended suddenly, devastating supporters and fellow players alike.
Andre Silva
In the same accident, Diogo Jota lost his younger brother André Silva, 25, who is also a professional footballer. The football world united in grief, with tributes pouring in from across Europe and beyond in recognition of Jota’s skill, work ethic and infectious passion for the sport.
Emmanuel Kundé
The Cameroonian defender, famed for his role in the “Indomitable Lions” squad of the early 1990s, passed away in May, leaving memories of resilience and unforgettable moments on the pitch.
Wilberforce Mfum
Another legendary figure, Wilberforce Mfum of Ghana, whose goals helped define a generation of his nation’s football history, including the first African Cup of Nations goal, also passed away at 88. His contributions remain a proud part of Ghanaian football heritage.
George Foreman
In March, the world bid farewell to George Foreman, one of boxing’s most charismatic and enduring figures. A two-time world heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medallist, Foreman’s career spanned generations, marked by historic battles and an extraordinary comeback later in life. His presence in and out of the ring made him a global icon.
Ricky Hatton
The boxing community also mourned Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton, a powerful and popular fighter whose fearless style brought excitement to fans around the world.
Ken Dryden
Six-time Stanley Cup champion and Hall of Fame hockey goaltender, remembered for his dominance for the Montreal Canadiens.
Hulk Hogan
The wrestling superstar who helped transform professional wrestling into a global entertainment phenomenon.
Davey Johnson
Celebrated Major League Baseball player and manager whose career crossed eras.
Ryne Sandberg
Baseball Hall of Famer and one of MLB’s most respected infielders, whose consistency and sportsmanship defined a generation.
Isabelle Marciniak
Brazil’s rhythmic gymnastics star, whose battle with cancer ended at 18, prompted an outpouring of affection from the international gymnastics community.
Audun Groenvold
Norwegian ski cross bronze medallist and coach, whose life was cut short in a tragic accident.
Lachie Stewart
Scotland’s Commonwealth Games gold medallist, whose distance running inspired athletes across the UK.
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