The sports world reacts to Senator John McCain's death
United States Senator John McCain died on Saturday after a 13-month long battle with brain cancer. He was 81.
McCain spent more than three decades representing Arizona in the U.S. Senate, and unsuccessfully ran two presidential campaigns, most notably falling to Barack Obama in 2008.
Shortly following his death, many in the sports world took to social media — including nearly every team and many prominent sports figures from Arizona — to remember and pay tribute to the Republican senator and war hero.
Farewell to an American hero.
Our condolences to the family and loved ones of Senator John McCain. pic.twitter.com/mkYuxCMiav
— Arizona Athletics (@AZATHLETICS) August 26, 2018
Your legacy in our state and country will forever live on.
May you rest in peace, Senator John McCain.
Our thoughts are with all of @SenJohnMcCain’s family and friends. pic.twitter.com/U5GDs0qOUa
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) August 26, 2018
Rest in peace to an American hero, statesman, servant of the people, and dear friend. Godspeed Senator McCain. My prayers for Cindy and the beautiful McCain family. pic.twitter.com/Tj87Hb8MtY
— Larry Fitzgerald (@LarryFitzgerald) August 26, 2018
You’ll be missed, Senator McCain. pic.twitter.com/2qMYmFciJm
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) August 26, 2018
“John McCain was an Arizona icon, an American hero and a friend,” the Suns wrote. “As we collectively mourn his passing, we also celebrate his unparalleled leadership and dedication to public service. Additionally, his courage, perseverance and ability to overcome adversity, in every facet of his life, will continue to inspire us all.
“The Suns organization stands with Cindy and the entire McCain family in honoring the life and legacy of this incredible man.”
Goodbye to an American hero, one we were lucky enough to call a loyal fan.
Rest in peace, Senator John McCain. Our thoughts are with your family and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/KIMZS1w7Pq
— Arizona Diamondbacks (@Dbacks) August 26, 2018
Senator McCain was not only a great man and patriot but also a loyal D-backs fan. I’m proud to have called him a dear friend. On behalf of my entire family, our thoughts and prayers are with Cindy and the McCain family. pic.twitter.com/noSItd72o8
— Luis Gonzalez (@Luisgonzo20) August 26, 2018
The Diamondbacks held an in-game tribute for McCain on Saturday night, too, where fans in attendance honored him with a standing ovation.
VIDEO: Diamondbacks honor Sen. John McCain with in-game tribute pic.twitter.com/lIQuSmkQSq
— azcentral (@azcentral) August 26, 2018
We’ll never forget your loyalty to our team, our state, and our country. Thank you, Senator. 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/MOXrDMjNYQ
— Arizona Coyotes (@ArizonaCoyotes) August 26, 2018
“The entire Coyotes organization is deeply saddened by the passing of Senator John McCain today,” the Coyotes wrote. “Senator McCain was a great American hero and patriot who dedicated his life and career to public service. Senator McCain was a maverick who fought for what he believed in and represented the very best ideals of the United States Senate. He was a courageous leader who served Arizona and the United States with tremendous pride, dignity and distinction.
“We extend our deepest condolences to his wife City and children Meghan, Bridget and James, as they mourn the loss of a great man and legendary public servant.”
The entire Arizona State University community joins the nation in mourning the loss of Sen. John McCain. https://t.co/NDyxiZSaUL
— Arizona State University (@ASU) August 26, 2018
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