Eddy Merckx
Cyclist and five-time Tour de France winner
Started competitive cycling in the early 1960s and achieved significant success throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Claimed numerous victories in major cycling events, including the Tour de France, which was won five times. Dominated the Giro d'Italia with five wins and achieved a record 11 victories in one-day classics. Transitioned to sportscasting after retiring from competitive cycling.
Won the Tour de France five times
Secured five Giro d'Italia titles
Achieved 11 victories in one-day classics
Other People Born on June 17th
Pete Browning
Baseball player and batting champion
Born
June 17th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1905 120 years ago — 44 years old
Debuted in Major League Baseball in 1882, primarily played as an outfielder. Played for the Louisville Grays, Cincinnati Reds, and the Chicago Colts, among others. Achieved the title of batting champion in 1887 with a batting average of .341. Noted for his unique batting style and was influential in the development of hitting techniques in baseball.
Continue ReadingEben Sumner Draper
American politician, 44th Massachusetts Governor
Born
June 17th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
1914 111 years ago — 56 years old
Served as the 44th Governor of Massachusetts from 1909 to 1910. Held office during a period of significant change in the state. Advocated for progressive policies and reforms. Engaged in various business ventures prior to entering politics, significantly impacting local economies. Contributed to educational initiatives and infrastructure development during tenure.
Continue ReadingRed Foley
Country singer and songwriter
Born
June 17th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
September 19th, 1968 57 years ago — 58 years old
An influential figure in country music, this individual gained prominence in the 1940s and 1950s. He recorded numerous hits and helped popularize the genre through performances on radio and television. Key achievements include hosting the Grand Ole Opry and having a successful career as a recording artist. Various albums featured standout tracks that contributed to the growth of country music during that era.
Continue ReadingElena Rybakina
Professional tennis player, Wimbledon champion
Born
June 17th, 1999 26 years ago
Born in 1999, this Kazakhstani tennis player gained prominence on the WTA Tour. In 2022, secured victory at Wimbledon, marking a significant milestone in career. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of World No. 12 in January 2023. Continued to showcase talent in various Grand Slam tournaments and other international competitions.
Continue ReadingMichael Mathieu
Bahamian sprinter and Olympic athlete
Born
June 17th, 1984 41 years ago
A distinguished sprinter from the Bahamas, achieved notable success in the 400 meters. Competed in multiple international competitions, including the World Championships and the Olympics. Contributed to the Bahamian relay teams, demonstrating consistent performance over several years. Attended the 2008 Beijing Olympics, becoming part of the Bahamian contingent. Showcased athletic prowess at collegiate level, representing the University of Georgia. Excelled in both individual and team events, marking a significant presence in the sprinting community.
Continue ReadingClément Lenglet
Footballer; played for Sevilla FC.
Born
June 17th, 1995 30 years ago
A professional footballer, primarily played as a central defender. Started career at Nancy, contributing to the team's defense in Ligue 1. Transferred to Sevilla FC, where notable performances helped secure victories in domestic and European competitions. Joined FC Barcelona in 2018, further establishing presence in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League. Captured the winning title in the Copa del Rey with Barcelona. Represented the French national team at various youth levels and made senior team appearances.
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