Biden pays tribute to ‘unbreakable’ Hank Aaron

President Joe Biden on Friday marked the passing of baseball legend Henry “Hank” Aaron, hailing the Hall of Famer’s monumental contributions to the game and legacy of fighting for racial equality.

“With courage and dignity, he eclipsed the most hallowed record in sports while absorbing vengeance that would have broken most people. But he was unbreakable,” Biden said in a statement.

Aaron, a longtime right fielder for the Atlanta Braves, endured frequent death threats from people who didn’t want a Black player to surpass Babe Ruth’s home run record, which had stood for some 40 years. Biden said Aaron’s character was integral to winning over “the hearts and minds” of those who didn’t want him to succeed.

“For generations of athletes and civil rights advocates who followed, he showed how to be proud and be unafraid to stand up for what is right and just,” Biden said.

Aaron passed away peacefully in his sleep on Friday, according to a team statement. He was 86.