Dick Button, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and five-time world champion, revolutionized figure skating with his innovative jumps and later became a renowned commentator, making the sport more accessible to audiences worldwide.
Dick Button, a legendary figure skater and renowned commentator, passed away at the age of 95. Button's legacy extends far beyond his two Olympic gold medals and five consecutive world championships. He was a pioneer, introducing groundbreaking jumps like the double axel and triple loop, revolutionizing the sport and inspiring generations of skaters. As an entrepreneur and broadcaster, Button transformed figure skating from a niche sport into a global spectacle.
His insightful commentary and candid analysis on ABC's 'Wide World of Sports' made the sport accessible to a wider audience, educating viewers about the intricacies and artistry of figure skating.Button's impact on the sport began after World War II. At just 16 years old, he became the youngest U.S. men's figure skating champion and went on to win gold at the 1948 St. Moritz Olympics, performing the first double axel in competition. He solidified his dominance with a second gold medal at the 1952 Oslo Games, where he executed the first triple jump (a loop) in competition. During this era, he won the prestigious Sullivan Award, a testament to his athletic achievements, and became the first figure skater to win it.Following his retirement from amateur competition, Button continued to contribute to the sport through his broadcasting and promotional endeavors. He notably persuaded ABC Sports executive Roone Arledge to televise the 1962 World Figure Skating Championships on 'Wide World of Sports,' marking his official entry into the world of sports commentary. His honest and insightful analysis made him a beloved figure among both skaters and viewers. He elevated the sport's profile, creating a space for open discussion and demystifying its complexities for a wider audience
FIGURE SKATING OLYMPICS COMMENTATOR DICK BUTTON HISTORY INNOVATION BROADCASTING ATHLETICS
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