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Chadwick Boseman: Arsenal’s Aubameyang and Lewis Hamilton lead sport tributes to Black Panther star

Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP
Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

Stars from across the world of sport have joined the tributes to Chadwick Boseman following the actor's death.

On Saturday, it was announced that the Black Panther star had passed away at the age of 43 after a four-year fight with colon cancer.

Boseman, who did not make his diagnosis public, died at his home in Los Angeles with his wife and family by his side.

"It is with immeasurable grief that we confirm the passing of Chadwick Boseman," read a statement released via his official Twitter account.

"Chadwick was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2016, and battled with it these last four years as it progressed to stage IV.

"A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all, and brought you many of the films you have come to love so much. From Marshall to Da 5 Bloods, August Wilson's Ma Rainey's Black Bottom and several more - all were filmed during and between countless surgeries and chemotherapy.

"It was the honour of his career to bring King TChalla to life in Black Panther."

Such was the significant cultural impact of Boseman's illustrious career, the shock news of his passing has led to an outpouring of grief and tributes from around the world and across many different disciplines.

Boseman acted in many sports films, including most notably playing the role of Jackie Robinson in the 2013 biographical film 42.

He also played Floyd Little in the 2008 film The Express: The Ernie Davis Story and later starred as an NFL prospect in 2014 picture Draft Day.

The esteem in which Boseman was held across the world of sport was apparent on Saturday as stars, teams and leagues all came together to pay tribute to the late actor.

"I woke up today to the sad news, our super hero passed away," Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton wrote on Twitter.

"I’m so grateful I got to meet you brother. Thank you for all you have done for us. Rest in Power, you were the best of us and will never be forgotten. Love, light and prayers I send to you and your family."

Alongside a picture of captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang celebrating a goal by donning a Black Panther mask, Arsenal said: "Rest in peace, Chadwick Boseman.

"An inspiration whose impact went far beyond film. Your legacy will live on. #WakandaForever."

Aubameyang himself also took to Instagram with the message: "We all feeling it!! may you Rest in Peace."

Manchester United midfielder Jesse Lingard wrote: "RIP Chadwick Boseman, even though I didnt know you on a personal level you inspired me and millions of people around the world. Rest easy king."

The official Twitter account of Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund, meanwhile, quoted one of Boseman's memorable lines from the Marvel film Captain America: Civil War, writing: "In my culture, death is not the end. Rest in peace, Chadwick Boseman."

Major League Baseball - who marked Jackie Robinson Day on Friday - released a statement that read: "We are devastated by the tragic loss of Chadwick Boseman.

"His transcendent performance in “42” will stand the test of time and serve as a powerful vehicle to tell Jackie’s story to audiences for generations to come."

The Jackie Robinson Foundation also produced a touching tribute to Boseman, whom they praised as a "consummate professional" who "absorbed every story, every memory, every photo and film he could consume to help translate the soul of an American hero".

They added: "And now, Chadwick will be etched into history as a hero in his own right, especially having shown millions of black and brown children the power of a superhero who looks like them.

"Chadwick - may you rest in peace eternally. Take your place among the greats. You earned it."

The Los Angeles Dodgers said: "From playing legendary figures to becoming one, we’ll never forget your iconic performance as Jackie Robinson and your many inspiring roles. You will be missed, Chadwick Boseman."

Reigning NFL Super Bowl MVP and Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes added: "A Genuine Great person. Rest in peace."

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Tributes paid to Black Panther star after death aged 43