Rivlin: Maradona brought moments of hope and pure happiness to millions

President Reuven Rivlin comments on the death of Diego Maradona:

“Maradona, the wonderful artist of soccer who brought light and joy to millions around the world, is no more. A soccer legend whose story we will tell over and over. Those of us who saw him play the ball with such lightness of touch, unstoppable on his way to the goal, together with our children and grandchildren who heard the stories of every legendary goal — all give thanks tonight.

“Thank you for unforgettable moments, in sorrow and in joy, for the moments of hope and pure happiness that you brought to millions around the world. I send consolation to the Argentinian people and to soccer fans everywhere on this sad evening.”

In this March 26, 2006 file photo, former soccer player Diego Maradona smokes a cigar as he watches Argentina’s first division soccer match between Boca Juniors and River Plate in Buenos Aires, Argentina. (AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko, File)