Hugh McIlvanney, widely considered to be one of the greatest sports journalists of his generation, has died at the age of 84.
The Football Writers Association confirmed the news early this morning, announcing that "one of the true greats of sportswriting" has passed away.
McIlvanney retired from journalism in 2016 having worked for more than sixty years with the Observer and the Sunday Times. His boxing and football sportswriting were renowned, with his coverage of the 'Rumble in Jungle' particularly remarkable.
There are writers you will read whatever they write. Hugh McIlvanney was one of those writers. If he published his weekly shopping list I’d still be in awe of his turn of phrase. I only wish I’d got to meet the great man himself. A sad, sad loss.
— David Preece (@davidpreece12) January 25, 2019
One of the greatest of all sports books - There will never be another Hugh Mcilvanney RIP pic.twitter.com/UNKnTEbR7l
— Dave Hannigan (@daveyhannigan) January 25, 2019
RIP Hugh McIlvanney. I wasn't lucky enough to meet the man but, like everyone else in my profession, I could only be influenced. A giant
— Liam Twomey (@liam_twomey) January 25, 2019
The legendary Hugh McIlvanney on George Best. What a writer. pic.twitter.com/DO6j0AkkkJ
— Will Tidey (@willtidey) January 25, 2019
Desperately sad news that @theofficialfwa Life Member Hugh McIlvanney has passed away at the age of 84. The finest sports writer of his generation and a giant of journalism. He set standards very few can ever hope to match
— Paul McCarthy (@PaulMcCarthy66) January 25, 2019
Terribly sad news about the death of Hugh McIlvanney. It was privilege to work with the great man and I will always cherish the memories of fun times spent out and about with him. RIP, Hugh https://t.co/Wg9NjVx8PO
— Alan English (@AlanEnglish9) January 25, 2019
The best of us has gone. I'm proud to have known Hugh McIlvanney as a colleague, companion, teacher, and exemplar of our trade. His lyricism, authenticity and humanity made him the master sportswriter. RIP.
— Michael Calvin💙 (@CalvinBook) January 25, 2019
Born and brought up in Kilmarnock, McIlvanney went on to provide expert coverage of England's World Cup win in 1966 as well as the career of Muhammad Ali and the Hillsborough Disaster.
Broadcaster and friend Danny Kelly penned a touching tribute to his "chum."
We argued like cat and dog, but always made up. And when you were having a proper barney with Hugh, his use of language (he spoke as elegantly as he wrote) made you secretly glad you were fighting. #genius
