Legends among footballing legends, Diego Maradona marked his sport like few other athletes in history. A heritage he shares with Michael Jordan, of whom he turned out to be a big fan. Image proof.
Who better placed to realize the extent of the work accomplished by very high level athletes than very high level athletes themselves? As such, it doesn’t come as much of a surprise that top athletes enjoy spending time together, regardless of their discipline. Football prodigy, Diego Maradona, for example, liked to hang out with the NBA stars of his time, like Magic Johnson:
The world lost one of the greatest soccer players that ever lived Diego Maradona. It was one of the thrills of my life when I got to meet him. Rest In Peace my friend and my prayers go out to his family. ???????? pic.twitter.com/SgQvij7a72
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) November 25, 2020
When Diego Maradona wears a Michael Jordan jersey
A true icon of the 80s, Maradona not only lived through the prime of Magic Johnson and Larry Bird, but also the emergence of a certain Michael Jordan. El Pibe de Oro has also nurtured a deep admiration over the years for the back of the Bulls, which materialized in 1994. In full preparation for the World Cup, the Argentinian genius then appeared with a Team USA jersey number 9:
Diego Maradona repping Michael Jordan’s jersey while preparing for 1994 #FIFAWC ????⚽️ pic.twitter.com/RHnk4i1Ctk
— FIBA (@FIBA) March 24, 2023
Unfortunately for him, this sartorial tribute to MJ will not necessarily bring him luck during the competition. Used only twice by the Albiceleste, he nevertheless scored a goal against Greece; his very last registered with his selection. For the rest, his life remains marred by an enormous regret vis-à-vis His Airness, namely that of never having had the honor of meeting him.
Some rumors, however, suggest that the two men would indeed have had the opportunity to talk in 2017, when Maradona came to the United States. Impossible, however, for the principal concerned to confirm or not this story, which he would certainly have proclaimed loud and clear if it had actually taken place. After all, he frankly considered Mike his idol when talking about him.
Despite his status as a global superstar, Diego Maradona was approaching a simple adorer vis-à-vis Michael Jordan. Evidenced by this mythical shot oh so symbolic, which brings together fans of football and basketball.
