What Happened This Year 1997

Born in 1997

Mamadi Diakite

Guinean Basketball Player & Champion
Born
January 21st, 1997 28 years ago

Professional basketball player from Guinea. Played college basketball at the University of Virginia, contributing to the team's NCAA championship victory in 2019. Transitioned to the NBA, signing with the Milwaukee Bucks and later playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Diakite's playing style showcased versatility as a forward, providing both defensive and offensive contributions to his teams.

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Ilia Topuria

Mixed martial artist, UFC competitor
Born
January 21st, 1997 28 years ago

Born in Germany to Georgian parents, a mixed martial artist competing in the UFC's featherweight division emerged as a notable fighter with a reputation for grappling and striking skills. Began professional career in 2015, quickly gaining recognition for a series of impressive victories. Renowned for an unbeaten record since debut, showcasing strong performance within the octagon. Transitioned to the UFC, where the fighter’s skills and tenacity caught the attention of fans and critics alike. Continues to compete at the highest levels of the sport, with aspirations of capturing championship titles in future bouts.

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Fan Zhendong

Table Tennis Player with World Championship title
Born
January 22nd, 1997 28 years ago

A table tennis player from China achieved remarkable success in international competitions. Captured multiple titles at the World Table Tennis Championships, including winning the Men's Singles title. Earned gold medals at the Asian Games and the World Cup. Dominated the international rankings for an extended period, showcasing exceptional skill and consistency in the sport.

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Nirei Fukuzumi

Race Car Driver with Formula 3 success
Born
January 24th, 1997 28 years ago

A race car driver from Japan achieved recognition in single-seater racing, notably in the Eurocircuit. Participated in the FIA Formula 3 Championship, showcasing talent and competitiveness. Transitioned to various motorsport series, including Super Formula and the Asian Le Mans Series, demonstrating versatility on the track. Achievements included podium finishes and valuable experience racing against top global talents. Continues to be an influential figure in Japanese motorsport.

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Noah Hanifin

Ice Hockey Player and Defenseman
Born
January 25th, 1997 28 years ago

An ice hockey player born in 1997, has played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL). Drafted 5th overall by the Carolina Hurricanes in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft. Played for the Hurricanes before being traded to the Calgary Flames in 2018. Competed at prominent international tournaments, representing the United States.

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Gedion Zelalem

American soccer player, MLS standout
Born
January 26th, 1997 28 years ago

A German-born American soccer player, dedicated career to professional soccer starting in youth leagues. Developed talent at the prestigious Arsenal youth academy, before making senior appearances with the first team. Played in Major League Soccer with New York City FC, contributing to the team’s midfield strength. Also made appearances for the United States national team at youth levels and received recognition for skills and vision on the pitch.

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Jack Roslovic

Ice hockey player, Columbus Blue Jackets
Born
January 29th, 1997 28 years ago

Born in 1997, an ice hockey player played in the NHL primarily for the Columbus Blue Jackets. Played junior hockey with the US National Development Team and the University of Massachusetts Lowell, before being drafted in the first round of the 2015 NHL Entry Draft. Made his NHL debut in the 2017-2018 season and has contributed significant points during various seasons for the Blue Jackets. Represented the United States in international competitions, including the World Junior Championships.

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Joel Eriksson Ek

Swedish ice hockey player and center
Born
January 29th, 1997 28 years ago

A professional ice hockey player born in Sweden, played as a center in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Minnesota Wild. Drafted in the second round by the Wild in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, Eriksson Ek made his NHL debut during the 2016-17 season. He established himself as a key player for the team, known for his two-way play and contributions to both offensive and defensive strategies. He played a vital role in helping the Wild reach the playoffs during his tenure with the team.

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Thomas Chabot

Ice Hockey Player, Ottawa Senators
Born
January 30th, 1997 28 years ago

Professional ice hockey player plays as a defenseman for the Ottawa Senators in the NHL. Drafted 18th overall in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, Chabot made his NHL debut in 2017. He has represented Canada on multiple occasions, including at the World Junior Championships. Known for impressive offensive skills and strong defensive play, Chabot became a key player for the Senators.

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