Magic Johnson Mourns Diego Maradona's Death & Sends Prayers to His Family in a Touching Tribute
More reactions continue to trail the passing of one of soccer's most extraordinary talents, Diego Armando Maradona. NBA legend Magic Johnson paid tribute to the deceased on Twitter.
Former NBA star Magic Johnson is mourning the soccer legend Diego Armando Maradona, who died on Wednesday after suffering a heart attack.
In a tweet, Johnson shared two pictures of himself and Maradona. In the snapshots, the sporting legends were all smiles as they had a sweet embrace.
Diego Maradona speaks to the media during a press conference at Green Point Arena on July 2, 2010, in Cape Town, South Africa | Photo: Getty Images
Johnson was in a blue basketball jersey, which he wore over a white T-shirt, while Maradona wore a brown vintage shirt and baggy jeans.
In the caption to the pictures, Johnson said the world had lost one of the greatest soccer players that ever lived in Maradona. He also added:
"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."
The Argentine Football Association (AFA), confirmed Maradona's passing on Wednesday. In a short message posted on its social media platforms, the association, through its President Claudio Tapia, expressed its deepest sorrow for Maradona's death.
Maradona is regarded as one of the best players to have ever graced the soccer pitch. He etched his name in Argentina's football history when he led his country to victory in the FIFA World Cup in 1986.
Pele said he had lost a dear friend and the world had lost a legend adding that he hopes to play soccer together with Maradona in the sky.
Maradona created many memorable moments and is remembered for one of the most famous World Cup goals, the "Hand of God," which he scored against England at the 1986 World Cup Quarterfinals.
It was also in that game that Maradona scored what continues to be considered by some as the best World Cup goal when he dribbled past seven English defenders and the goalkeeper before slotting the ball in the back of the net.
Diego Maradona at the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa Round of Sixteen match between Argentina and Mexico at Soccer City Stadium on June 27, 2010 in Johannesburg, South Africa. | Photo: Getty Images
The world continues to react to Maradona's passing as there continues to be an outpour of tributes in his honor. Famous sports personalities like Mike Tyson, Usain Bolt, and Giannis Antetokounmpo have shared tributary messages on social media.
There was also a tribute from Lionel Messi, who said Maradona is not going anywhere because he is eternal. Cristiano Ronaldo described Maradona as an unparalleled magician and one of the best, saying he had gone too soon but leaves a legacy.
Another soccer icon, Brazilian star Pele, said he had lost a dear friend, and the world had lost a legend adding that he hopes to play soccer together with Maradona in the sky.
Meanwhile, three days of national mourning have been declared in Argentina. In that time, the deceased legend's body will lie in state at the presidential palace, Casa Rosada, in Buenos Aires.