Other reporters who were close to Wahl told the AP news agency that he collapsed during the extension. Wahl was said to have been taken to hospital but they were unable to revive him.
Ned Price, spokesman for the US Foreign Ministry, regretted the death on Twitter. “We are working with the Qatari authorities to ensure that his family’s wishes are met as quickly as possible,” he wrote.
On Monday, Wahl, who was covering his eighth World Cup, wrote that he had sought treatment in Qatar.
“My body finally broke down. Three weeks of little sleep, high stress levels and a lot of work can do that,” Wahl wrote.
“What had been a cold for the last ten days turned into something more serious the night the USA played the Netherlands, and I had increased pressure and discomfort in my chest. I didn’t have covid (I get tested regularly here), but I went to the media center clinic today and they said I probably have bronchitis. I was prescribed a course of antibiotics and a strong cough medicine, and after a few hours I already feel a little better.”
Arrested for wearing the rainbow symbol
News of his death came just weeks after he was arrested before the United States’ opening game against Wales when he wore a rainbow-embellished T-shirt. He was subsequently detained for half an hour before being released.
The American Football Association writes in a statement on Twitter that Grant Wahl could always be turned to for an informed and entertaining analysis of the sport.
“Grant has made football his life’s work and we are devastated that he and his brilliant pen are no longer with us.”
Grant Wahl was 48 years old.
