FOX Sports begins World Cup coverage with emotional tribute to Grant Wahl after his death in Qatar

US World Cup broadcaster FOX Sports have paid tribute to soccer journalist Grant Wahl who passed away in Qatar Friday night.

Presenter Rob Stone emotionally celebrated the life of Wahl, who previously worked at the company, in an opening monologue. 

‘Today we’re going to try to celebrate the beautiful with heavy, heavy hearts. 

‘Yesterday, the American soccer community suffered an unspeakable loss – renowned, massively influential journalist Grant Wahl passed away here in Qatar, while covering this tournament. 

‘Grant’s career included more than two decades at Sports Illustrated and seven years as a colleague here at Fox Sports during which he helped raise the popularity of soccer in the United States to new heights.’

Stone then read part of the statement released by United States soccer and then went on to mention Gianni Infantino’s statement. 

‘Gianni Infantino said of Grant: “His love for football was immense and his reporting will be missed by all who follow the global game.”‘

Stone then became more visibly emotional and choked up as he began to mention Wahl’s wife. 

‘He is survived by his wife Celine,’ Stone added. ‘Grant was 48 years old.’

Wahl worked for FOX during his illustrious career and was seen as a giant voice in US soccer

FOX sideline reporter Jenny Taft, who is also in Qatar covering the World Cup, shared she recently met with Wahl and expressed her appreciate for the 48-year-old. 

‘I celebrated Grant’s birthday with him 2 nights ago,’ Taft wrote on Twitter in the early hours of Saturday morning. 

‘I can’t believe this is real. Grant was a friend, and always looked out for me. He cared deeply about the game and was excited to share that passion with everyone. 

‘Grant thank you for being you … you touched so many of us.’

Grant Wahl passed away while covering the Argentina and Holland match on Friday night