American Figure Skating Legend Dick Button Dies at 95

Dick Button, the US determine skating legend and two-time Olympic gold medalist who was one of the crucial modern tv commentators in sports activities, died Thursday, Jan. 30 at 95.

US Figure Skating, the governing physique behind this sport, confirmed his demise. The Associated Press first reported about his demise, citing Button’s son, Edward. No explanation for demise was given.

Dick Button Made Competitive Figure Skating More Popular

According to NBC News, Button made historical past within the sport by changing into the primary American male determine skater to win Olympic gold at solely 18 years previous in 1948 in St. Moritz, Switzerland. Button managed to astonish audiences when he efficiently executed the first-ever double axel throughout a contest.

For the second Winter Olympics, in Oslo, Norway, in 1952, Button was an unbeatable skater as properly, taking the gold medal on the ice there whereas setting the primary report for the triple loop leap. His creativity additionally launched the “Button camel,” which is now referred to as the flying camel spin.

Button’s affect remained unmatched for greater than six many years. He was the final American man to win back-to-back Olympic gold medals in determine skating till Japan’s Yuzuru Hanyu achieved the feat in 2014 and 2018.

Academic and Professional Achievements

Being one true scholar-athlete, he graduated from Harvard University in 1952 earlier than finally incomes his regulation diploma at Harvard Law School in 1955. Of course, the regulation needed to give in to Button’s ardour and infatuation for skating—additionally, of necessity, and Ice Capades, in addition to Holiday on Ice, noticed him round their phases previous to broadcasting.

The Voice of Figure Skating

Button’s affect on the game went far past the ice rink. He turned a family identify as a tv commentator, debuting in 1960 with CBS on the Winter Olympics in Squaw Valley, California. His sharp wit, deep data, and candid critiques made him a fan favourite.

His commentary type set a brand new normal in sports activities broadcasting, shaping the best way audiences engaged with determine skating.

Throughout his profession, Button has furnished evaluation for NBC, the place his most up-to-date appearances have been as protection of the Winter Olympics in Vancouver in 2010, TMZ Sports writes.

The contributions made in direction of the game acquired recognition by means of inducting Button into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame in 2015.

Fellow commentators and skaters have been in mourning over his demise. Olympic gold medalist Scott Hamilton posted a tribute on social media, posting an image with Button and a damaged coronary heart emoji.

Johnny Weir, one of the crucial well-known figures in trendy skating commentary, praised Button’s fearless method: “He told it like it was, even when his opinion wasn’t popular.”

Button’s Legacy Sparks Inspiration Among Aspiring Skaters

Button’s passing comes at a tough time for the skating group, already grappling with the tragic lack of a number of younger athletes in a midair collision over the Potomac River earlier this week. Despite these losses, Button’s legacy stays a supply of inspiration for skaters and followers worldwide.

Survived by his longtime accomplice and partner, Dennis Grimaldi, in addition to his kids, Edward and Emily Button, Dick Button leaves behind an indelible mark on determine skating. His contributions as an athlete, innovator, and broadcaster be sure that his affect can be felt for generations to come back.