Former president Bill Clinton is just one of many to pay tribute to legendary boxer, Muhammad Ali.
Since Muhammad Ali’s death late Friday night at the age of 74, icons from entertainment to fellow sports stars have been pouring in.
Now, as reported by BBC News, former president Bill Clinton has also put out a statement.
The statement, which was posted to the Clinton Foundation website, reads as follows:
"Hillary and I are saddened by the passing of Muhammad Ali. From the day he claimed the Olympic gold medal in 1960, boxing fans across the world knew they were seeing a blend of beauty and grace, speed and strength that may never be matched again. We watched him grow from the brash self-confidence of youth and success into a manhood full of religious and political convictions that led him to make tough choices and live with the consequences. Along the way we saw him courageous in the ring, inspiring to the young, compassionate to those in need, and strong and good-humored in bearing the burden of his own health challenges.I was honored to award him the Presidential Citizens Medal at the White House, to watch him light the Olympic flame, and to forge a friendship with a man who, through triumph and trials, became even greater than his legend. Our hearts go out to Lonnie, his children, and his entire family."
Bill Clinton is expected to deliver a eulogy at the public interfaith service for Muhammad Ali, which will be held next Friday in Louisville, Kentucky.
Muhammad Ali passed away late Friday night. His health had been in decline for many years because of complications from Parkinson’s disease, which he was diagnosed with in 1984.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Ali family, along with all those whose life Muhammad Ali touched in some way.
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