40 Of The Most Unforgettable Sports Photos The World Has Ever Seen

Photographers will do almost anything for that perfect shot. And that’s especially true in sports, where they’ve got to think on their feet, following the players or athletes across the pitch or along the race track. Certain snaps, such as these 40, stand out in history as being some of the best ever. They definitely deserve their place in the hall of fame at least!

40. Kerri Strug at the 1996 Olympics

During the 1996 Olympics, American gymnast Kerri Strug picked up an ankle injury in the opening vault event. Ripped ligaments to be exact. Ouch! Incredibly, though, Strug powered through the pain and continued to compete, helping Team USA to the top step on the Oympic podium in the all-around competition for the first time. As you can see, trainer Béla Kérolyi needed to hold her up in the aftermath while she wore a protective boot. What a moment.

39. Michael Jordan in 1988

The Slam Dunk Contest is one of the highlights of the All-Star Weekend, but few can beat the 1988 event. Michael Jordan was on fire that year, producing some jaw-dropping shots like this one here. He eventually overcame the challenge of Dominique Wilkins to earn his second victory in the competition. Air Jordan indeed!

38. Secretariat at the 1973 Belmont Stakes

As any horse racing fan will tell you, most contests on the track are incredibly close. That wasn’t the case at the 1973 Belmont Stakes, though. On that occasion, Ron Turcotte and his equine partner Secretariat demolished their competitors with a staggering 31-length victory. Turcotte even had time to stare at the racers in the rear, as we can see here.

37. Oliver Kahn during the 2001 Champions League final

When Bayern Munich secured soccer’s 2001 Champions League trophy in a penalty shoot-out, goalkeeper Oliver Kahn didn’t immediately join his teammates in celebration. In fact, his first thought went to his fallen counterpart. Yes, Kahn instantly consoled Valencia’s shot-stopper Santiago Canizares on the sidelines. It was a heartwarming moment caught by this particular snap.