Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton was asked to name a black individual they particularly admired in their lives or who inspired them.
The Briton said he’s impressed by Ali, who was not only one of the greatest boxers and athletes of all time, but also a character considered one of the most important and famous figures of the 20th century.
“I believe Muhammad Ali was the greatest sports icon of all time. He’s always been someone I admired. He has inspired me so much throughout my life. That’s why I got it tattooed on my right calf.” Hamilton said.
“But there have been many great sports icons who, like Ali, have used their position and stood up for so much more, taking a stand against what was expected and going against the grain.
“Muhammad risked everything for what he believed. I found it really inspiring, to be honest, after reading the stories.” Hamilton added.
Beyond his sporting performances, Ali achieved unparalleled notoriety among an athlete by his taste for the spectacle, his provocative personality, his religious and political positions, then his personal destiny, since the one who was crowned “sportsman of the century” in 1999 was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
“Telling it is one of the most important things today. That’s why I’m so grateful to hear that The Sun is doing this special series because there is so much we don’t know about black history and it’s so helpful.” Hamilton said.
“There are so many interesting stories and they should be heard. As a black man growing up in school and seeing this lack of representation was a real thing.
“I didn’t grow up when Ali was fighting. And when I met him, I had seen all these videos and read so much about him.
“I couldn’t wait to see this character when I met him a few years ago. But unfortunately he was battling a horrible disease so he was silent, and I don’t know if he knew what was going on.” he added.
