February 24

Born into the prestigious Rothschild family in Paris, Édouard A. J. de Rothschild was a leading figure in European finance. He managed the family’s banking enterprises, expanding international investments. A passionate sportsman, he captained France’s polo team at international tournaments. Rothschild also supported the arts and philanthropy, funding museums and cultural institutions. His dual legacy as banker and athlete left an indelible mark on French society.

Born in 1874 in Pennsylvania, Honus Wagner debuted in Major League Baseball in 1897. Nicknamed 'The Flying Dutchman,' he became renowned for his agility, hitting prowess, and defensive skills at shortstop. Wagner led the National League in batting average eight times and helped the Pittsburgh Pirates win multiple pennants. He later served as a coach and manager, sharing his expertise with younger players. In 1936, he was one of the first five inductees into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Wagner passed away in 1955, leaving a lasting impact as one of baseball's earliest superstars.

Jim Ferrier was an Australian golfer and the first Australian-born player to win a major championship when he captured the PGA Championship in 1947. He moved to the United States in the mid-1940s and enjoyed success on the PGA Tour, winning multiple tournaments. Known for his smooth swing and skillful putting, Ferrier set scoring records and helped popularize golf internationally. He was regarded as one of the world's top golfers during the late 1940s and early 1950s. After retiring from competition, he coached emerging players and consulted on course design. Ferrier's achievements paved the way for future Australian golf stars. He was inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame for his contributions to the game.

Born David Ritchie, Dave Sands hailed from the Aboriginal Wiradjuri community. He turned professional in the early 1940s and quickly captured the Australian middleweight title. Sands defended his crown multiple times and later claimed the light heavyweight championship. Known for his powerful punching and technical skill, he became one of Australia’s greatest post-war fighters. In 1952, he traveled to the United States to seek world title bouts. Tragically, his career and life were cut short when he died in a car accident at age 26. Sands is remembered for his trailblazing role as an Indigenous sports icon and was posthumously inducted into the Australian National Boxing Hall of Fame.

Born Kim Young Hong, Kintarō Ōki adopted his ring name when he debuted in 1954. He quickly rose to prominence in Japan, winning multiple championships in the Japan Pro Wrestling Alliance. Known for his powerful style and samurai-inspired persona, he drew large crowds and helped popularize professional wrestling in Asia. Ōki toured internationally, facing legends such as Lou Thesz and Rikidōzan. After the breakup of the JWA, he competed in various promotions and influenced a generation of wrestlers. His dedication and fierce in-ring presence earned him a lasting reputation. He passed away in 2006, but his contributions to wrestling are still celebrated by fans today.

Born in 1931 in Rawtenstall, Lancashire, Brian Close made his Test debut for England at age 18, becoming the youngest player to captain the side. Over a 20-year playing career, he represented Yorkshire and Somerset at first-class level, scoring over 30,000 runs and taking more than 1,000 wickets. Close was celebrated for his gritty batting style and fearless fielding. After retiring as a player, he served as a coach and manager for Yorkshire, nurturing future cricket talents. His contributions to English cricket were honored with an OBE for his services to the sport.

Born in 1934 in East Yorkshire, Johnny Hills began his professional career with Hull City, making over 100 appearances as a pacey winger. He later played for Bournemouth & Boscombe Athletic, helping the club secure promotion to the Third Division. Known for his speed and crossing ability, Hills also had stints with Crewe Alexandra and Bradford Park Avenue before retiring in 1966. After football, he worked as a coach and mentor for youth teams and ran a local pub. His dedication to the sport earned him respect among teammates and fans alike.

Jimmy Ellis began his professional boxing career in 1961 and quickly rose through the heavyweight ranks. Known for his elegant fighting style and powerful jab, he won the WBA championship in 1968 by defeating Jerry Quarry. Ellis defended his title against notable contenders before dropping it in 1970. Over his career, he amassed a record of 38 wins and 14 losses. After retiring in 1972, he remained active in the boxing community and mentored young fighters. He passed away in 2014, leaving a legacy as one of boxing's most stylish heavyweights.

Denis Law began his senior career with Huddersfield Town before moving to Manchester City, where he earned a reputation as a clinical finisher. In 1961, he transferred to Torino in Italy, showcasing his scoring talent abroad. He returned to England in 1962 to join Manchester United, where he became a club legend, netting over 200 goals. In 1964, he won the Ballon d'Or, the only Scottish recipient of the award. Law also scored 30 goals in 55 appearances for the Scotland national team. After retiring in 1974, he transitioned to broadcasting as a respected sportscaster. Nicknamed 'The Lawman,' he is celebrated for his agility, technical skill, and goal-scoring flair.

Gigi Meroni burst onto the Italian football scene with Como before signing for Torino in 1964. Nicknamed 'La Farfalla Granata' (The Maroon Butterfly) for his graceful dribbling and elegant style. He became a fan favorite, known for his creativity on the wing and signature 'merengue' step-over move. Meroni earned caps for Italy, showcasing his talent on the international stage during the 1966 World Cup qualifiers. Off the pitch, he was admired for his artistic interests, influencing fashion and culture in Turin. Tragically, Meroni's promising career was cut short when he died in a car accident at age 24 in 1967. His impact on 'Grande Torino' and his legacy as a football icon endure in Italy's sporting history.

Born February 24, 1949, in Middlesbrough, John Lever emerged as a skillful left-arm fast-medium bowler. He made his Test debut for England in 1971 and represented the national side throughout the 1970s. At domestic level, Lever was a mainstay for Middlesex County Cricket Club for over a decade. Known for his ability to swing the ball and extract seam movement, he became a key part of England’s pace attack. He earned acclaim on the Ashes tour to Australia and in series against the West Indies. Lever retired from playing in the mid-1980s after taking hundreds of wickets in first-class cricket. After hanging up his boots, he turned to coaching and mentoring young bowlers, sharing his expertise.