Legendary Sportswriter John Feinstein Dies at 68 in Virginia

MCLEAN, Va. — John Feinstein, a celebrated sportswriter for The Washington Post and best-selling author, passed away Thursday at the age of 68. His brother, Robert, confirmed the news, stating Feinstein died at his home in McLean, though the cause of death is currently unknown.

Feinstein was a prolific writer, known for his remarkable contributions to sports journalism over the past half-century, and his last column on Michigan State men’s basketball coach Tom Izzo was published just hours before his passing.

The New York City native began his career at The Washington Post in 1977 as a night police reporter before transitioning to sports, where he gained prominence covering various disciplines, including football, basketball, tennis, golf, and more. His in-depth reporting and storytelling set him apart, as he developed a unique talent for profiling athletes and coaches.

Feinstein’s books, including “A Good Walk Spoiled: Days and Nights on the PGA Tour” and “A Season on the Brink,” became classics in sports literature. The latter, chronicling then-Indiana University coach Bob Knight, has been hailed as a transformative work that offered an intimate look at the complexities of a prominent figure in college basketball.

“My biggest problem as a writer has always been to figure out what to leave out,” Feinstein once said. “If I’m writing and I look and see I’ve written 2,000 words in the last hour, then I’ve done my job.” His deep sourcing and relentless work ethic contributed to his reputation as a leading voice in sports commentary.

In addition to his work with The Washington Post, Feinstein also wrote for Sporting News and contributed to Golf Digest, NPR, and ESPN. His engaging commentary resonated with fans across various media platforms, solidifying his legacy in the sports community.

Feinstein’s dedication to his craft was evident throughout his career, with his writings often diving deep into the dynamics of sports and athletes’ lives, revealing the personas behind the games. His influence on sports journalism and literature will be remembered by readers and aspiring journalists alike.

As the news of Feinstein’s passing spreads, fans and colleagues have begun paying tribute to his significant contributions to sports writing. His ability to blend intricate narratives with reporting has set a benchmark in the industry.