The American businessman, who co-owned Liverpool Football Club with George Gillett from 2007 to 2010, died peacefully at his home in Dallas, Texas, surrounded by loved ones. His passing has elicited an outpouring of grief not only from his family but also from various circles within the sports world, where his legacy leaves a complicated but impactful mark.
In a touching tribute, Hicks’ six children released a statement reflecting on their father’s life. “Of everything he accomplished in his remarkable life, Tom Hicks’ most cherished title was ‘Dad’,” they wrote. This statement conveys the deep affection and respect they hold for him, highlighting the important role he played in their lives. “Regardless of the challenges he faced, he was unfailingly generous and filled our lives with love,” they continued, emphasizing his dedication and unwavering support as a father.
Their message further illustrated the values of resilience and integrity that he instilled in them: “He remains a guiding force for our family, and we are deeply honored to carry on his legacy.” This acknowledgment reflects a commitment to honoring the principles he represented, especially in times of adversity. “While we are heartbroken by this loss, we are immensely grateful to have had him as our father,” they concluded, a sentiment that resonates deeply during this difficult time.
During his ownership of Liverpool, Hicks and Gillett faced intense criticism from fans who were disillusioned with their management of the club. After battling significant financial challenges, they eventually sold Liverpool to Fenway Sports Group. Their time at the helm was characterized by widespread discontent among the club’s supporters due to enormous debts reaching around £237 million and their failure to deliver on key promises, such as renovating Anfield or constructing a new stadium. This period of unrest led to protests from passionate fans who felt sidelined by the ownership’s decisions.
Beyond football, Hicks had a noteworthy career in the broader sports industry. He owned the Dallas Stars, a professional ice hockey team, from 1995 until 2011. During his ownership, the Stars enjoyed remarkable success, securing back-to-back Central Division titles in the late 1990s and clinching the coveted Stanley Cup in 1999 — a pinnacle achievement that solidified his reputation in ice hockey.
Additionally, he owned the Texas Rangers baseball team from 1998 to 2010, during which the team also enjoyed notable accomplishments, including three American League West Division titles and a runner-up finish in the 2010 World Series, a milestone that remains significant in the franchise’s history.
Tom Hicks is survived by his wife of 35 years, Cinda, and their children. His passing marks a profound loss not only for his family but also for the sports teams he led and the fans who experienced the highs and lows of his ownership. As they navigate this difficult time, his family is likely to remember him not only for his business endeavors but also for the familial love he fostered throughout his life.
World of sports 
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