Netherlands-Argentina: American sports journalist Grant Wahl died in the quarter-finals on the field

Famed American sports journalist Grant Wahl died during the quarter-final between Argentina and the Netherlands at the World Cup in Qatar. Several US reporters seated near the 48-year-old reported that he collapsed into the media stand during extra time at Doha’s Lusail Stadium on Friday night and could not be revived.

His wife, Celine Gunder, wrote on Twitter that she was in complete shock. “The entire American Football family is saddened to learn of Grant Wahl’s loss,” the NFL said.

Wahl – who has worked for Sports Illustrated and CBS – has been the eighth FIFA World Cup correspondent. On Monday, the Associated Press reported that he reported a visit to the hospital because his body had injured him. “Three weeks of too little sleep, too much stress, and too much work can do that to you,” he wrote. He didn’t have Covid. He was told at the hospital that he might have bronchitis. “They gave me an antibiotic and a strong cough syrup and after a few hours I feel a little better. But still: not good.”

And on Friday night, Waal tweeted about the 2-2 draw for the Netherlands: “Unbelievable free kick goal.” Finally, the Argentines won 4-3 on penalties after an exciting match.

Wahl said he was detained by security forces 25 minutes before the preliminary round match between the United States and Wales on November 21 for wearing a rainbow T-shirt to show his support for the LGBT community. Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar and is punishable by up to seven years in prison.