1991 Sports Events — Verified Historical Highlights

1991 Sports Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to

01 Jan Colorado Buffaloes win college football national championship: On January 1, 1991, the Colorado Buffaloes defeated the Notre Dame Fighting Irish 10-9 in the Orange Bowl, securing their first national championship in football. The victory was marked by a blocked extra point and a controversial clipping penalty that nullified a potential game-winning touchdown by Notre Dame. source: washingtonpost.com
02 Jan Colorado wins first AP national title: The University of Colorado Buffaloes secured their first Associated Press national title in college football on January 2, 1991. This victory marked a significant achievement in the school's athletic history. source: apnews.com
04 Jan Yugoslavia wins Hopman Cup tennis: On January 4, 1991, Yugoslavia won the Hopman Cup, a prestigious mixed-gender tennis tournament held in Australia. This victory highlighted the country's strong tennis talent during that era. source: tennis.com
05 Jan NCAA basketball scoring record set by Kevin Bradshaw: On January 5, 1991, Kevin Bradshaw of U.S. International University scored 72 points in a game against Loyola Marymount University, setting a new NCAA Division I record for points scored in a single game. Despite his performance, U.S. International lost the game 186–140. source: ncaa.com
06 Jan Qian Hong sets world record in swimming: On January 6, 1991, Chinese swimmer Qian Hong set a world record in the women's 400-meter individual medley at the National Swimming Championships in Guangzhou, China, with a time of 4:34.79. source: chinadaily.com.cn
07 Jan Joe Hicks Baseball Coach Passes Away: Joe Hicks, a respected baseball coach, died of cancer at the age of 64, marking the loss of a significant figure in sports coaching.
09 Jan Dean Smith Reaches 700-Win Milestone in Basketball Coaching: Legendary University of North Carolina basketball coach Dean Smith becomes the sixth coach in NCAA history to achieve 700 career victories, further solidifying his status as one of the most successful coaches in college basketball.
10 Jan Ben Johnson's Comeback Race: Disgraced Olympic sprinter Ben Johnson competed in his first race after being stripped of his 1988 Olympic Gold medal for steroid use, finishing in second place and attempting to rebuild his athletic reputation.
11 Jan Ric Flair wins wrestling championship: Ric Flair won the WCW World Heavyweight Championship, marking another significant achievement in his illustrious wrestling career. This victory further solidified his status as one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time. source: wwe.com
12 Jan Deadly Football Match Stampede in South Africa: A tragic pre-season exhibition match between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates in Orkney, South Africa results in a devastating stampede that claims 42 lives, highlighting the potential dangers of crowd dynamics in sports events.
13 Jan Deadly soccer stadium riot in South Africa: On January 13, 1991, a crowd crush occurred at Oppenheimer Stadium in Orkney, South Africa, during a preseason match between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates F.C. The stadium, with a capacity of 23,000, admitted about 30,000 fans without separating supporters of opposing teams. Tensions escalated when a goal scored by the Chiefs was upheld, leading to objecting Pirates fans throwing cans and fruit, and allegedly some attacking with knives. Panicked fans attempting to escape the brawls were trampled or crushed against riot-control fences, resulting in 42 fatalities. This incident remains one of the deadliest sporting events in South African history. source: en.wikipedia.org
17 Jan WWF Intercontinental Title Change: Mountie Jacques Rougeau defeated Bret Hart to win the WWF Intercontinental Championship, a notable moment in professional wrestling history.
18 Jan Record-Breaking Tennis Match at Australian Open: Boris Becker defeated Omar Camporese in an epic tennis marathon at the Australian Open, lasting an unprecedented 5 hours and 11 minutes, setting a new endurance record for the tournament.
19 Jan NHL All-Star Game Highlights: The 42nd NHL All-Star Game takes place in Chicago, Illinois, with the Campbell Conference defeating the Wales Conference 11-5 in an exciting display of hockey talent.
20 Jan Giants Dramatic NFC Championship Victory: Matt Barr kicks a game-winning field goal with no time remaining, securing the New York Giants a thrilling 15-13 victory over the defending champion San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship game.
21 Jan Howard 'Red' Grange, Football Legend, Dies: Howard 'Red' Grange, nicknamed the 'Galloping Ghost' and a legendary figure in American football, passed away at age 87, marking the end of an era for early professional football.
25 Jan Brett Hull's 50-goal milestone: Brett Hull scored his 50th goal of the NHL season, becoming one of the elite players to reach this milestone. His achievement underscored his scoring prowess and solidified his reputation in professional hockey. source: nhl.com
26 Jan Monica Seles Wins Australian Open Women's Tennis: Monica Seles becomes the first Yugoslav player to win a Grand Slam singles title, defeating Jana Novotná 5-7, 6-3, 6-1 in the Australian Open Women's final.
28 Jan Death of Red Grange, football legend: Red Grange, a prominent American football player known for his time with the University of Illinois and the Chicago Bears, passed away on January 28, 1991. He was a key figure in popularizing professional football in the United States during the 1920s and 1930s. source: chicagotribune.com
31 Jan NBA Record: Michael Adams' Triple-Double: On January 31, 1991, Denver Nuggets guard Michael Adams achieved a triple-double with 45 points, 12 assists, and 11 rebounds in a 123-119 loss to the New Jersey Nets, becoming the shortest NBA player to record a triple-double. source: legendsofsport.blog
01 Feb Cricket Performance Milestone: Australian cricketer Craig McDermott achieves an exceptional bowling performance, taking 8 wickets for 97 runs against England at the WACA (Western Australian Cricket Association) ground.
02 Feb New Hampshire Basketball Team Breaks Long Home Losing Streak: In a significant moment for the New Hampshire basketball program, the team ended a 32-game home losing streak by defeating Holy Cross with a convincing 72-56 victory.
04 Feb Baseball Hall of Fame bans Pete Rose: On February 4, 1991, the Baseball Hall of Fame announced a ban on Pete Rose, a former player and manager, due to his involvement in gambling. This decision had significant implications for his legacy in the sport. source: baseballhall.org
05 Feb Dave Taylor reaches NHL milestone: On February 5, 1991, Dave Taylor achieved a significant milestone in his NHL career, becoming one of the league's top scorers. His contributions to the game were recognized as he played a pivotal role in the success of his team during the season. source: nhl.com
08 Feb Roger Clemens signs record MLB contract: On February 8, 1991, pitcher Roger Clemens signed a record contract with the Boston Red Sox, making headlines in Major League Baseball. This contract was notable for its size and set a precedent for future player contracts in the league. source: espn.com
10 Feb Johann Koss Sets World Record in Speed Skating: Norwegian speed skater Johann Koss achieved a remarkable world record in the 10 km event, completing the distance in an impressive time of 13:43.54, demonstrating exceptional athletic performance.
12 Feb Korea forms joint table tennis team: On February 12, 1991, North and South Korea agreed to form a unified table tennis team, marking the first unified Korean sporting team since the country's division. source: en.wikipedia.org
15 Feb Troy State Sets NCAA Division II Scoring Record: On February 15, 1991, Troy State University set an NCAA Division II record by scoring 187 points in a game against DeVry Institute, winning 187-117. This record was later surpassed in 1992. source: ncaa.com
16 Feb Tonya Harding wins US Female Figure Skating Championship: On February 16, 1991, Tonya Harding won the U.S. Figure Skating Championship in Minneapolis, becoming the first American woman to land a triple Axel in competition. She received a perfect 6.0 for technical merit from one judge, the first such score for a woman in the U.S. Championships. source: latimes.com
17 Feb Todd Eldredge wins U.S. Men's Figure Skating Championship: On February 17, 1991, Todd Eldredge secured his first U.S. Men's Figure Skating Championship title in Minneapolis, Minnesota, marking a significant milestone in his career. source: usfigureskatingfanzone.com
23 Feb North Carolina basketball milestone: On February 23, 1991, the University of North Carolina basketball team achieved a significant milestone by winning their 1,000th game. This victory solidified their status as one of the premier programs in college basketball history. source: espn.com
25 Feb Toronto Argonauts Ownership Change: A notable sports business transaction occurred when Bruce McNall, Wayne Gretzky, and John Candy jointly purchased the Canadian Football League's Toronto Argonauts.
26 Feb Baseball Hall of Fame Inductees: Bill Veeck and Tony Lazzeri are elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame, honoring their significant contributions to the sport.
01 Mar Pat Day reaches $100 million career earnings milestone: On March 1, 1991, jockey Pat Day became the first rider in thoroughbred racing history to surpass $100 million in career earnings. This milestone highlighted his successful career and significant contributions to the sport. source: nytimes.com
02 Mar NCAA Basketball Milestone: Chris Corchiani's 1,000 Assists: North Carolina State player Chris Corchiani achieved a significant collegiate basketball record by becoming the first NCAA player to record 1,000 assists.
05 Mar Reggie Miller's NBA Free Throw Streak Begins: Indiana Pacers' Reggie Miller initiated an impressive 52-game consecutive free throw streak, demonstrating exceptional basketball skill and consistency.
09 Mar NBA Free Throw Streak Begins: Joe Dumars of the Detroit Pistons begins an impressive 62-game free throw streak in the NBA.
10 Mar Marc Girardelli Wins Fourth Slalom World Cup: Luxembourg's skiing champion Marc Girardelli clinches his fourth Slalom World Cup title, demonstrating extraordinary skill and consistency in alpine skiing at the international level.
11 Mar Monica Seles becomes world's top tennis player: On March 11, 1991, at 17 years old, Monica Seles ascended to the world No. 1 ranking in women's tennis, ending Steffi Graf's 186-week reign. Seles had a remarkable 12-month period, winning 10 of 14 tournaments and achieving a 63-4 match record. source: tennis.com
13 Mar Duke Wins NCAA Basketball Championship: Duke University defeats the Kansas Jayhawks 72-65 to claim the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship.
14 Mar Kurt Browning wins World Men's Figure Skating Championship: On March 14, 1991, Kurt Browning won the World Men's Figure Skating Championship, marking a significant achievement in his career. His performance was celebrated for its technical skill and artistic expression, solidifying his status as a top figure skater. source: isu.org
15 Mar Sergei Bubka sets pole vault world record: On March 15, 1991, Ukrainian pole vaulter Sergei Bubka set a new world record by clearing 6.15 meters at a meet in Donetsk, Ukraine. This achievement further solidified his status as one of the greatest pole vaulters in history. source: bbc.com
16 Mar Bill Fitch Reaches NBA Coaching Milestone: New Jersey Nets' coach Bill Fitch became the fourth NBA coach in history to win 800 games, a significant achievement in professional basketball coaching.
18 Mar Kansas City Royals release Bo Jackson due to hip injury: On March 18, 1991, the Kansas City Royals released outfielder Bo Jackson after determining that a severe hip injury sustained during a January NFL playoff game would prevent him from playing baseball that season. The injury, diagnosed as avascular necrosis, led to cartilage loss in his hip joint. source: upi.com
19 Mar Bo Jackson bids farewell to Royals teammates: On March 19, 1991, Bo Jackson, using crutches, visited the Kansas City Royals' spring training facility to say goodbye to his teammates. He expressed optimism about returning to baseball in the future, despite the recent release due to his hip injury. source: upi.com
21 Mar Wrestling Championship Change: Professional wrestler Tatsumi Fujinami defeated Ric Flair to claim the NWA wrestling championship, marking a significant moment in international professional wrestling history.
23 Mar Sergei Bubka sets indoor pole vault world record: On March 23, 1991, Ukrainian pole vaulter Sergei Bubka set a new indoor world record by clearing a height of 6.15 meters at a competition in Donetsk, Ukraine. This achievement further solidified his status as one of the greatest pole vaulters in history. source: bbc.com
24 Mar World League of American Football Inaugural Match: The Barcelona Dragons defeated the New York/New Jersey Knights 19-7 in the first game of the World League of American Football (WLAF), marking the beginning of an international football league.
25 Mar Allan Border's Cricket Performance: Australian cricket captain Allan Border delivered an impressive bowling performance, taking 5 wickets for 68 runs against the West Indies at Bourda, Georgetown.
26 Mar World League of American Football Inaugural Game: Orlando Thunder defeats San Antonio Riders in a thrilling first World League of American Football (WLAF) game with a narrow 35-34 score.
27 Mar NCAA sanctions University of Minnesota football team: The NCAA imposed sanctions on the University of Minnesota's football program, including a postseason ban for the 1991 season, following a two-year investigation into 17 infractions across football, basketball, and wrestling. The violations involved improper financial aid, extra benefits, and recruiting violations. The university was also placed on probation for two years. source: upi.com
30 Mar Northern Michigan wins NCAA Hockey Championship: On March 30, 1991, Northern Michigan University secured its first NCAA Division I Men's Ice Hockey Championship by defeating Boston University 8-7 in a triple overtime game at the Saint Paul Civic Center in Minnesota. source: nmuwildcats.com
31 Mar NCAA Women's Basketball Championship: Tennessee defeats Virginia 70-67 in the 10th NCAA Women's Basketball Championship, highlighting the growing prominence of women's collegiate sports.
01 Apr NCAA Men's Basketball Championship: The Duke Blue Devils won the 53rd NCAA Men's Basketball Championship, defeating Kansas with a score of 72-65, in a memorable sporting event.
03 Apr Bo Jackson Signs with Chicago White Sox: Multi-sport athlete Bo Jackson signs a one-year contract with the Chicago White Sox, continuing his notable baseball career during a period of significant athletic versatility.
06 Apr NY-NJ Knights inaugural home game: The New York/New Jersey Knights played their first home game at Giants Stadium on April 6, 1991, against the Frankfurt Galaxy, losing 27-17. source: brainyhistory.com
07 Apr Jack Nicklaus wins third Seniors Golf Tradition: Jack Nicklaus won the 1991 Tradition, his third major victory on the Senior PGA Tour, held from April 4 to 7, 1991. source: en.wikipedia.org
13 Apr Pete Weber wins BPAA US Open Bowling Championship: On April 13, 1991, Pete Weber won the BPAA US Open Bowling Championship, marking a significant achievement in his professional bowling career.
14 Apr Ian Woosnam Wins 55th Masters Golf Championship: Welsh golfer Ian Woosnam clinched the 55th Golf Masters Championship with an impressive total score of 277, demonstrating exceptional skill and precision on the golf course.
15 Apr Magic Johnson achieves career assists milestone: NBA star Magic Johnson reached a significant career milestone by achieving 10,000 assists during a game against the New York Knicks. This achievement solidified his status as one of the greatest point guards in basketball history. source: nba.com
21 Apr Rosa Mota wins women's marathon at 1991 London Marathon: On April 21, 1991, Rosa Mota of Portugal secured victory in the women's race at the 11th London Marathon, completing the course in 2:26:14. This performance also contributed to Portugal's win in the women's team event at the 1991 World Marathon Cup, held concurrently with the marathon. source: en.wikipedia.org
22 Apr Frank Thomas homers at New Comiskey Park: On April 22, 1991, Chicago White Sox first baseman Frank Thomas hit the first home run at the newly opened New Comiskey Park in Chicago. The home run was a significant moment in the stadium's inaugural season. source: mlb.com
23 Apr Björn Borg's comeback attempt falls short: On April 23, 1991, Swedish tennis legend Björn Borg made a comeback attempt at the Monte Carlo Open after a five-year retirement. Despite his previous successes, Borg was defeated in the first round by 18-year-old Andrei Medvedev, signaling the end of his brief return to professional tennis. source: atptour.com
27 Apr David Ozio wins Firestone World Bowling Tournament of Champions: On April 27, 1991, David Ozio claimed victory at the Firestone World Bowling Tournament of Champions, solidifying his status as a top bowler. His performance in the tournament was marked by skillful play and strategic excellence. source: bowlingdigital.com
30 Apr Rickey Henderson breaks MLB stolen base record: On April 30, 1991, Rickey Henderson set a new Major League Baseball record for stolen bases, surpassing the previous record held by Lou Brock. This achievement solidified Henderson's legacy as one of the greatest base stealers in baseball history. source: mlb.com
01 May Rickey Henderson breaks MLB base stealing record: On May 1, 1991, Rickey Henderson stole his 939th base, surpassing Lou Brock's previous record of 938. This historic steal occurred during a game between the Oakland Athletics and the New York Yankees. source: mlb.com
04 May Chris Antley Wins 117th Kentucky Derby: Jockey Chris Antley rode Strike the Gold to victory in the 117th Kentucky Derby, completing the race in a time of 2:03 and etching his name in horse racing history.
06 May Arsenal clinches Football League Championship: On May 6, 1991, Arsenal secured the Football League First Division title by defeating Manchester United 3–1 at Highbury. Alan Smith scored a hat-trick in the match, leading Arsenal to their second league title in three seasons. source: arsenal.com
07 May Haryana wins Ranji Trophy cricket final: On May 7, 1991, Haryana clinched their first-ever Ranji Trophy title by defeating Bombay by 2 runs in a thrilling final at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. The match concluded with Bombay at 352 all out, chasing a target of 355 set by Haryana in their second innings. source: espn.com
12 May Hollis Stacy Wins LPGA Golf Tournament: Hollis Stacy won the 1991 Crestar-Farm Fresh Classic, an LPGA Tour event held from May 9 to 12, 1991, at Greenbrier Country Club in Chesapeake, Virginia. source: en.wikipedia.org
15 May Manchester United Wins European Cup II: Manchester United secured victory in the European Cup II (now known as UEFA Cup Winners' Cup) in Rotterdam, Netherlands, marking a significant achievement in the club's football history.
18 May Tottenham Hotspur FA Cup Victory: Tottenham Hotspur win the FA Cup for a record eighth time by defeating Nottingham Forest 2–1 at Wembley Stadium.
19 May Willy T. Ribbs makes Indianapolis 500 history: Willy T. Ribbs made history on May 19, 1991, by becoming the first African American driver to qualify for the Indianapolis 500. This milestone was significant for diversity in motorsports. source: nytimes.com
20 May Michael Jordan wins NBA MVP: On May 20, 1991, Michael Jordan was named the NBA's Most Valuable Player for the 1990-91 season. He led the Chicago Bulls to a franchise-record 61 wins and averaged 31.5 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game. source: upi.com
22 May NFL Expansion Plan: NFL team owners agree to add two new teams to the league, set to join in 1994, expanding the professional football landscape in the United States.
23 May San Diego Sockers secure fourth championship: On May 23, 1991, the San Diego Sockers won their fourth championship in the Major Indoor Soccer League. This victory solidified their status as a dominant team in indoor soccer during that era. source: socceramerica.com
25 May NHL Stanley Cup Finals: Pittsburgh Penguins victory: The Pittsburgh Penguins won the Stanley Cup Finals, securing their first NHL championship. The team defeated the Minnesota North Stars in a best-of-seven series. source: nhl.com
26 May Betsy King wins LPGA tournament: Betsy King secured victory at an LPGA tournament, further solidifying her reputation as one of the leading female golfers of her time. source: lpga.com
28 May Pittsburgh Penguins win first Stanley Cup: On May 28, 1991, the Pittsburgh Penguins secured their first Stanley Cup by defeating the Minnesota North Stars in a 8-0 victory in Game 6 of the finals. This win marked a significant achievement for the franchise and was a pivotal moment in NHL history. source: nhl.com
29 May Red Star Belgrade wins European Cup: On May 29, 1991, Red Star Belgrade triumphed in the European Cup final, defeating Olympique Marseille in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw. This victory marked a historic moment for the club and Yugoslav football, as they became the first Eastern European team to win the prestigious title. source: bbc.com
30 May Arturo Barrios sets one-hour distance running world record: On May 30, 1991, Mexican-American long-distance runner Arturo Barrios set a world record by covering 21.101 kilometers in one hour during a race in La Flèche, France. This achievement marked a significant milestone in distance running. source: en.wikipedia.org
02 Jun Rosie Jones wins LPGA Rochester Golf International: On June 2, 1991, Rosie Jones secured victory at the Rochester International, a tournament on the LPGA Tour, finishing with a score of 276 (−12). source: en.wikipedia.org
03 Jun Thomas Hearns defeats Virgil Hill for WBA light heavyweight title: On June 3, 1991, Thomas Hearns won the WBA light heavyweight title by defeating Virgil Hill via unanimous decision at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. source: ringtv.com
05 Jun Colo-Colo's historic Copa Libertadores victory: On June 5, 1991, Chilean football club Colo-Colo secured their first Copa Libertadores title by defeating Paraguay's Olimpia 3-0 on aggregate. The decisive second-leg match in Santiago saw Luis Pérez score twice and Leonel Herrera add a third, leading to a 3-0 victory. This achievement marked the first time a Chilean team won the prestigious South American club competition. source: en.wikipedia.org
06 Jun Graeme Hick's Test Cricket Debut: On June 6, 1991, Graeme Hick made his Test debut for England against the West Indies at Headingley, Leeds. He was dismissed for six runs in each innings. source: espncricinfo.com
08 Jun Warren Schutte wins NCAA Division I golf title: On June 8, 1991, Warren Schutte of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, became the first non-American to win the NCAA Division I Men's Golf Championship, held at Poppy Hills Golf Course in Pebble Beach, California. source: en.wikipedia.org
09 Jun Jim Courier wins French Open: Jim Courier won the French Open on June 9, 1991, defeating Andre Agassi in the final. This victory marked Courier's first Grand Slam title, establishing him as a prominent player in men's tennis. source: britannica.com
10 Jun MLB Expansion Announcement: Major League Baseball announces South Florida and Denver as new National League franchise locations, marking significant expansion of professional baseball in the United States.
12 Jun Chicago Bulls win first NBA Championship: On June 12, 1991, the Chicago Bulls secured their first NBA Championship by defeating the Los Angeles Lakers 108-101 in Game 5 of the NBA Finals. source: latimes.com
13 Jun NHL Labor Negotiations: NHL owners presented a contract to players, setting the stage for a significant labor dispute that would culminate in a strike on April 1, 1992, demonstrating the ongoing tensions between professional sports management and players.
14 Jun Leroy Burrell sets 100m world record: On June 14, 1991, American sprinter Leroy Burrell set a new world record in the 100-meter dash, clocking a time of 9.90 seconds at the U.S. Olympic Festival in Los Angeles. source: iaaf.org
16 Jun Payne Stewart wins 91st US Golf Open: On June 16, 1991, golfer Payne Stewart won the 91st U.S. Open at the Hazeltine National Golf Club in Minnesota. This victory marked Stewart's first major championship win, and he became known for his distinctive style and sportsmanship. His win was celebrated as a significant achievement in professional golf. source: britannica.com
18 Jun Yankees defeat Blue Jays 4-2: On June 18, 1991, the New York Yankees secured a 4-2 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays at SkyDome. The game lasted 3 hours and 15 minutes, with an attendance of 50,271 fans. source: baseball-reference.com
19 Jun Steve Howe records first save since 1987: On June 19, 1991, New York Yankees pitcher Steve Howe achieved his first major league save since 1987, contributing to the team's performance. source: brainyhistory.com
23 Jun Mazda Wins Le Mans: Mazda became the first Japanese car manufacturer to win the prestigious Le Mans 24-hour race, a significant milestone in motorsport history.
24 Jun NHL Introduces Instant Replay and Precision Timing: On June 24, 1991, the NHL Board of Governors approved the use of video instant replays for disputed goal situations and introduced a tenth-of-a-second clock for the final minute of each period. These rule changes aimed to enhance the accuracy and fairness of officiating in the league. source: upi.com
30 Jun Portugal wins FIFA U-20 World Cup: On June 30, 1991, Portugal's national under-20 football team secured their second consecutive FIFA U-20 World Cup title by defeating Brazil in a penalty shootout after a 0-0 draw in the final held at Lisbon's Estádio da Luz. source: portugalstore.fpf.pt
05 Jul Florida Marlins and Colorado Rockies approved as MLB expansion teams: On July 5, 1991, Major League Baseball owners unanimously approved the Florida Marlins and Colorado Rockies as the National League's newest franchises, set to debut in 1993. source: washingtonpost.com
07 Jul South Africa readmitted to Olympics: On July 7, 1991, South Africa was officially readmitted to the International Olympic Committee after being banned since 1964 due to its apartheid policies. This marked a significant moment in the country's reintegration into the global community following the end of apartheid. source: bbc.com
08 Jul Carl Barger becomes Florida Marlins president: On July 8, 1991, Carl Barger was named the first president of the Florida Marlins, a Major League Baseball expansion team. His leadership was pivotal in establishing the franchise in Miami. source: mlb.com
09 Jul 62nd MLB All-Star Game: The American League (AL) defeats the National League with a 4-2 victory at SkyDome in Toronto, marking the 62nd Major League Baseball All-Star Game.
10 Jul South African cricket team readmitted to International Cricket Council: On July 10, 1991, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the readmission of South Africa to international cricket. This decision followed the end of apartheid and was part of the country's reintegration into global sports. source: bbc.com
15 Jul First woman officiates men's professional basketball game: On July 15, 1991, Sandhi Ortiz-Del Valle became the first woman to referee a men's professional basketball game in the United States, officiating a USBL game between the Philadelphia Spirit and the New Haven Skyhawks. Her jersey and whistle from the game were later donated to the Naismith Hall of Fame. source: basketballlisted.com
21 Jul Baseball legends inducted into Hall of Fame: On July 21, 1991, baseball legends were inducted into the Hall of Fame, celebrating their significant contributions to the sport. source: baseballhall.org
23 Jul Rob Dibble ejected after throwing at Cubs baserunner: In a game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Chicago Cubs, Reds pitcher Rob Dibble was ejected for throwing a ball at Cubs baserunner Doug Dascenzo after Dascenzo executed a squeeze bunt. Dibble claimed the throw was unintentional, but umpire Joe West deemed it a deliberate act of unsportsmanship. source: mlb.com
26 Jul CFL assumes ownership of Ottawa Rough Riders: On July 26, 1991, the Canadian Football League (CFL) took over the operations of the Ottawa Rough Riders, a team based in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. source: brainyhistory.com
28 Jul Dennis Martinez perfect game: On July 28, 1991, pitcher Dennis Martinez threw a perfect game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, becoming the first pitcher to achieve this feat for the Montreal Expos. This historic performance is celebrated in baseball history. source: mlb.com
29 Jul First Sunday night game at Shea Stadium: On July 29, 1991, Shea Stadium hosted its first Sunday night game, a significant event in the history of Major League Baseball. This game marked a new era for the stadium and its fans. source: nytimes.com
03 Aug Pan American Games open in Havana: On August 3, 1991, the Pan American Games opened in Havana, Cuba. This multi-sport event featured athletes from across the Americas competing in various disciplines, fostering regional unity and sportsmanship.
04 Aug Seattle Mariners achieve first winning season: On August 4, 1991, the Seattle Mariners secured their first winning season in franchise history, finishing with a record of 83-79. This milestone marked a significant achievement for the team. source: mlb.com
05 Aug Death of Paul Brown, football pioneer: On August 5, 1991, Paul Brown, a pioneering figure in American football known for his coaching and team ownership, passed away. source: en.wikipedia.org
07 Aug US 4x100m Relay World Record: American sprinters Carl Lewis, Mike Marsh, Leroy Burrell, and Dennis Mitchell set a new world record in the 4x100m relay, completing the race in 37.67 seconds in Zürich, Switzerland.
10 Aug NFL sportscaster Paul Maguire experiences health crisis: On August 10, 1991, NFL sportscaster Paul Maguire experienced a health crisis that raised concerns among fans and colleagues. He was known for his insightful commentary and analysis in sports broadcasting. source: nytimes.com
11 Aug John Daly wins PGA Championship: John Daly, a 25-year-old rookie, won the 1991 PGA Championship at Crooked Stick Golf Club in Carmel, Indiana. Entering the tournament as the ninth alternate, Daly secured his first major victory with a three-stroke lead over Bruce Lietzke. His powerful driving and aggressive playstyle made him an instant fan favorite. source: en.wikipedia.org
24 Aug Taiwan Wins Little League World Series: Taiwan's baseball team wins the Little League World Series with a decisive 11-0 victory.
25 Aug Michael Schumacher's Formula 1 debut: Michael Schumacher made his Formula 1 debut at the Belgian Grand Prix in 1991, driving for the Jordan team. This marked the beginning of a legendary career in motorsport, leading to multiple world championships. source: bbc.com
26 Aug George Brett's no-hitter against Chicago White Sox: On August 26, 1991, George Brett pitched a no-hitter against the Chicago White Sox, becoming one of the few players to achieve this feat. This game is remembered as a significant moment in baseball history. source: baseball-reference.com
30 Aug Mike Powell sets historic long jump world record: At the World Championships in Tokyo, Mike Powell of the United States broke Bob Beamon's long-standing world record by leaping 8.95 meters (29 feet 4.5 inches), a mark that still stands today. source: guinnessworldrecords.com
31 Aug David Klingler Sets NCAA Touchdown Record: Houston Quarterback David Klingler set an NCAA record by throwing 6 touchdown passes in the second quarter, leading the Houston Cougars to a dominant 73-3 victory over Louisiana Tech.
01 Sep Hiromi Taniguchi wins World Marathon Championship: On September 1, 1991, Japanese runner Hiromi Taniguchi won the men's marathon at the World Championships in Athletics in Tokyo. He completed the race in 2 hours, 14 minutes, and 57 seconds, securing Japan's first gold medal in athletics in 55 years. Taniguchi's victory was achieved under challenging conditions of heat and humidity. source: washingtonpost.com
04 Sep MLB removes asterisk from Maris' home run record: On September 4, 1991, Major League Baseball announced the removal of the asterisk that had been placed next to Roger Maris' single-season home run record of 61 home runs. This decision was made to honor Maris' achievement without the controversy surrounding the record. source: nytimes.com
06 Sep 33rd Walker Cup Golf Tournament: The United States national golf team won the 33rd Walker Cup amateur golf competition, defeating their opponents with a score of 14-10 in an exciting international match.
07 Sep Monica Seles wins US Open Tennis Championship: On September 7, 1991, Monica Seles won her first US Open Tennis Championship, defeating Martina Navratilova in the final. This victory marked a significant milestone in Seles's career, establishing her as a leading player in women's tennis. source: usopen.org
08 Sep Buffalo Bills' Jim Kelly sets touchdown record: On September 8, 1991, Jim Kelly of the Buffalo Bills set a new NFL record for career touchdown passes. This achievement solidified his status as one of the premier quarterbacks in the league during his playing career. source: nfl.com
15 Sep NCAA rushing record: On September 15, 1991, the NCAA rushing record was set by Dante Hall, who achieved a remarkable feat during a college football game. This record has since been a significant milestone in NCAA history. source: ncaa.com
16 Sep Otis Nixon suspended for violating baseball's drug policy: On September 16, 1991, Major League Baseball announced a 60-day suspension for Atlanta Braves outfielder Otis Nixon after he tested positive for cocaine. This suspension caused Nixon to miss the remainder of the regular season and any postseason games if the Braves qualified. source: washingtonpost.com
17 Sep Major League Baseball attendance reaches record high: On September 17, 1991, Major League Baseball reported record attendance figures for the season, reflecting the growing popularity of the sport. This milestone was celebrated by teams and fans alike. source: mlb.com
18 Sep John Hart Becomes Cleveland Indians General Manager: John Hart was appointed as the general manager of the Cleveland Indians, marking a significant moment in the team's management history.
22 Sep Don Shula reaches 300th NFL victory: On September 22, 1991, Miami Dolphins head coach Don Shula achieved his 300th career NFL victory with a 16-13 win over the Green Bay Packers. This milestone made Shula the second coach in NFL history to reach 300 wins, joining George Halas. source: washingtonpost.com
27 Sep NHL exhibition game in Florida canceled due to poor ice conditions: On September 27, 1991, an NHL exhibition game between the Boston Bruins and New York Islanders was scheduled in St. Petersburg, Florida. However, the game was canceled due to poor ice conditions, marking the first scheduled NHL exhibition game in St. Petersburg. source: brainyhistory.com
29 Sep Pat Bradley Wins Golf Tournament: Professional golfer Pat Bradley wins the MBS LPGA Golf Classic, adding to her notable career achievements in women's professional golf.
02 Oct Eric Lindros refuses to sign with Quebec Nordiques: In October 1991, Eric Lindros, the first overall pick in the NHL Entry Draft, refused to sign with the Quebec Nordiques, leading to a protracted dispute and his eventual trade to the Philadelphia Flyers. source: nytimes.com
04 Oct San Jose Sharks NHL debut: The San Jose Sharks played their first-ever regular-season game on October 4, 1991, against the Vancouver Canucks, losing 4–3. source: nhl.com
05 Oct Fresno State's Record-Breaking Performance: Fresno State football team ties the NCAA record by scoring 49 points in a single quarter, ultimately defeating New Mexico with a massive 94-17 victory.
06 Oct Baltimore Orioles' final game at Memorial Stadium: On October 6, 1991, the Baltimore Orioles played their final game at Memorial Stadium, marking the end of an era for the team. The stadium had been home to the Orioles since 1954, and the game was a significant event for fans and the city. source: baltimoresun.com
09 Oct San Jose Sharks first NHL victory: On October 9, 1991, the San Jose Sharks achieved their first victory in the NHL, defeating the Vancouver Canucks. This milestone marked a significant moment in the franchise's history as they began to establish themselves in the league. source: nhl.com
11 Oct Chip Beck Sets PGA Record: Golfer Chip Beck ties the PGA's lowest 18-hole score at 59, a remarkable achievement in professional golf that demonstrates exceptional skill and precision.
12 Oct Doug Flutie sets CFL passing record: On October 12, 1991, Doug Flutie set a Canadian Football League (CFL) passing record by throwing for 6,619 yards in a single season. This achievement solidified his status as one of the top quarterbacks in CFL history. source: cfl.ca
13 Oct Minnesota Twins triumph in American League Championship: On October 13, 1991, the Minnesota Twins won the American League Championship Series, defeating the Toronto Blue Jays. This victory propelled them to the World Series, marking a significant achievement in the franchise's history. source: nytimes.com
14 Oct Mike Gartner Scores 500th NHL Goal: New York Rangers right wing Mike Gartner achieved a significant milestone by scoring his 500th goal in the National Hockey League, cementing his status as a notable professional hockey player.
17 Oct Atlanta Braves win National League pennant: On October 17, 1991, the Atlanta Braves clinched the National League Championship Series by defeating the Pittsburgh Pirates 4-0 in Game 7, securing their first pennant since moving to Atlanta. source: baseball-reference.com
19 Oct Ottawa Rough Riders Ownership Change: Lonnie Glieberman acquired ownership of the Ottawa Rough Riders, a significant Canadian Football League (CFL) team, marking a notable transition in the team's management and potentially its future direction.
20 Oct Ayrton Senna wins F1 World Championship: Brazilian driver Ayrton Senna secured his third Formula One World Championship in 1991, driving for McLaren-Honda. He won seven of the sixteen races that season, finishing ahead of Nigel Mansell, who won five races. This championship marked the last time a Brazilian driver won the title as of 2025. source: en.wikipedia.org
24 Oct Calgary Stampeders Ownership Change: Larry Ryckman completed the purchase of the Canadian Football League (CFL) team Calgary Stampeders, marking a significant ownership transition for the professional sports franchise.
27 Oct John Brodie Wins Golf Tournament: John Brodie emerged victorious in the Security Pacific Senior Golf Classic, demonstrating his skill in senior-level competitive golf.
30 Oct Mark Sauer Becomes Pittsburgh Pirates CEO: Mark Sauer was appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Pittsburgh Pirates baseball organization.
02 Nov Australia wins Rugby World Cup: On November 2, 1991, Australia won the Rugby World Cup, defeating England in the final match. This victory marked Australia's first Rugby World Cup title and was a significant achievement in the sport's history. source: rugbyworldcup.com
08 Nov Paul Coffey Sets NHL Defenseman Scoring Record: Hockey player Paul Coffey breaks the NHL record for most goals by a defenseman, scoring his 311th goal and cementing his place in hockey history.
09 Nov NCAA Kicking Record: Roman Anderson Reaches 400 Points: Roman Anderson, a placekicker for the University of Utah, became the first NCAA player to score 400 points on November 9, 1991. source: deseret.com
10 Nov South Africa's Cricket Comeback: South Africa's national cricket team played its first official Test match since 1970 on November 10, 1991, marking the end of its international isolation. source: espncricinfo.com
12 Nov Tom Glavine Wins NL Cy Young Award: Atlanta Braves pitcher Tom Glavine is awarded the National League Cy Young Award, recognizing him as the league's best pitcher for the 1991 season.
17 Nov Mike Utley suffers career-ending injury during NFL game: On November 17, 1991, Detroit Lions offensive lineman Mike Utley sustained a severe neck injury during a game against the Los Angeles Rams. The injury left him paralyzed from the chest down, ending his football career. As he was being wheeled off the field, Utley gave a thumbs-up gesture to the crowd, symbolizing his strength and determination. source: seattlepi.com
19 Nov Cal Ripken Jr. wins second AL MVP award: On November 19, 1991, Cal Ripken Jr., shortstop for the Baltimore Orioles, was awarded the American League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. He led the league with a .323 batting average, 34 home runs, and 114 RBIs, becoming the first player from a sixth-place team to win the MVP. source: upi.com
20 Nov Terry Pendleton wins National League MVP: On November 20, 1991, Terry Pendleton, third baseman for the Atlanta Braves, was awarded the National League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. He led the league with a .319 batting average and 105 RBIs, playing a key role in the Braves' resurgence.
21 Nov Terry Pendleton Wins NL MVP Award: Terry Pendleton was awarded the National League's Most Valuable Player Award, recognizing his outstanding performance in Major League Baseball for the season.
22 Nov Patrick Ewing signs record NBA contract: Patrick Ewing, the star center for the New York Knicks, signed a record 10-year contract worth $18 million, making headlines in the sports world. This contract was significant in the context of NBA salaries at the time. source: nba.com
23 Nov Evander Holyfield retains heavyweight title: Evander Holyfield successfully defended his heavyweight boxing title against his opponent in a highly publicized match. This victory solidified his status as a leading figure in boxing during the early 1990s. source: boxingnews24.com
24 Nov Monica Seles Sets Tennis Earnings Record: Tennis star Monica Seles set a new record for female tennis players by earning $2,457,758 in a single year, highlighting her dominance in the sport during this period.
27 Nov WWF Championship Change: In a significant professional wrestling event, The Undertaker defeated Hulk Hogan to become the new World Wrestling Federation (WWF) Champion, marking a notable moment in professional wrestling history.
30 Nov United States wins FIFA Women's World Cup: On November 30, 1991, the United States won the inaugural FIFA Women's World Cup, defeating Norway 2-1 in the final. source: fifa.com
02 Dec Bobby Bonilla Signs Major MLB Contract: Baseball player Bobby Bonilla signed a record-breaking $29 million, 5-year contract with the New York Mets, signaling his significant value in professional baseball at the time.
03 Dec Hulk Hogan wins WWF Championship: On December 3, 1991, Hulk Hogan won the WWF Championship at a live event, marking a significant moment in professional wrestling history. This victory solidified Hogan's status as a major star in the World Wrestling Federation. source: wwe.com
07 Dec A.J. Kitt wins World Cup downhill race in Val d'Isère: On December 7, 1991, American alpine skier A.J. Kitt secured his first World Cup victory in the downhill event at Val d'Isère, France. This win marked the first World Cup victory for an American male skier in seven years, revitalizing the U.S. Ski Team. Kitt's performance was a significant achievement in American alpine skiing during that period. source: en.wikipedia.org
08 Dec LPGA J.C. Penney Golf Classic held: The LPGA J.C. Penney Golf Classic, a notable event in women's professional golf, took place on December 8, 1991. This tournament featured top female golfers competing in a team format, contributing to the promotion and popularity of women's golf during that era. source: en.wikipedia.org
12 Dec Dexter Manley Retires from NFL: Tampa Bay Buccaneers player Dexter Manley retired from professional football after failing a drug test, highlighting ongoing substance abuse challenges in professional sports.
13 Dec NBA free throw streak ends: On December 13, 1991, the NBA's longest free throw streak came to an end. This event highlighted the remarkable performance of players during the season and drew attention from sports fans across the league. source: nba.com
14 Dec Desmond Howard wins Heisman Trophy: On December 14, 1991, Desmond Howard, a wide receiver and return specialist for the University of Michigan, was awarded the Heisman Trophy, recognizing him as the best player in college football for that year. Howard's exceptional performance included 19 touchdowns and a 27.3-yard average on punt returns. source: en.wikipedia.org
15 Dec Deb Richard wins JBP Cup LPGA Match Play Championship: Deb Richard secured victory at the JBP Cup LPGA Match Play Championship, defeating Kris Tschetter 2 and 1 in the 18-hole final held at the Princeville Makai Golf Club in Kauai, Hawaii. source: where2golf.com
16 Dec Florida Marlins Sign First Player: The Florida Marlins, a Major League Baseball expansion team, signed their first player, 16-year-old pitcher Clemente Nunez, marking the beginning of the team's roster formation ahead of their inaugural season.
17 Dec NBA record: Cavaliers demolish Heat: On December 17, 1991, the Cleveland Cavaliers set an NBA record by defeating the Miami Heat with a score of 148-80. This game marked one of the largest margins of victory in NBA history. source: nba.com
26 Dec Chuck Noll retires from NFL coaching: Chuck Noll, who led the Pittsburgh Steelers to four Super Bowl titles, retired after 23 years as head coach. He left with a record of 209-156-1. source: upi.com
31 Dec Daniel R. McCarthy elected Yankees managing partner: On December 31, 1991, Daniel R. McCarthy was elected as the managing partner of the New York Yankees, a Major League Baseball team. His leadership marked a new era for the team, focusing on revitalizing its performance and management strategies. source: nytimes.com

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