30 Years Later: A Day that Forever Altered Sports History
Thirty years ago today, one of the most unforgettable and infamous days in sports history unraveled. On June 17, 1994, the sports world was brimming with notable events, featuring legendary athletes and moments of great celebration. However, the day became infamous due to the involvement of O.J. Simpson and his white Ford Bronco, overshadowing all other occurrences.
Arnold Palmer's Final U.S. Open Round
The day began with golf legend Arnold Palmer teeing off for his final U.S. Open round, having received a special exemption from the USGA to play at Oakmont. Although Palmer missed the cut at 16-over, he received immense support from the crowd and became emotional after completing the round. Ernie Els ultimately won his first major championship at the age of 24, defeating Loren Roberts in a sudden-death hole.
Rangers' Stanley Cup Parade
Later in the morning, New York City was engulfed in championship fever as the New York Rangers celebrated their first Stanley Cup victory in 54 years. Mark Messier's decisive goal against the Vancouver Canucks in Game 7 secured the championship, and the Rangers paraded the Cup up New York's "Canyon of Heroes." An estimated 1.5 million people packed the streets to join the festivities, which concluded with the players receiving keys to the city from Mayor Rudy Giuliani. Unfortunately for the Rangers, this remains their last Stanley Cup triumph, as they faced heartbreaks in subsequent years, including losses to the Los Angeles Kings in 2014 and to the Florida Panthers in the Eastern Conference Final this year.
O.J. Simpson's Legal Troubles
Amidst these moments of celebration, darkness loomed over Los Angeles as news broke at 11:09 a.m. that murder charges had been filed against O.J. Simpson. Simpson was accused of the brutal stabbing murders of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend Ronald Goldman, whose bodies were discovered days earlier outside Brown Simpson's house. Simpson, a former NFL star who had transitioned into a successful career as an actor, football analyst, and commercial pitchman, quickly became the Los Angeles Police Department's prime suspect.
By early afternoon, at 1:55 p.m., LAPD Commander David Gascon held a press conference to announce that authorities were searching for Simpson, as he had not turned himself in after charges were filed.
The United States Hosts Its First World Cup Match
Despite the grim news from Los Angeles, the sports world continued. At 3:00 p.m., the United States hosted its first World Cup match, marking a significant milestone for American soccer. The opening ceremonies took place at Soldier Field, where Oprah Winfrey introduced Diana Ross, who performed on the field before President Bill Clinton addressed the crowd. Germany faced Bolivia in the opening match, with Germany securing a 1-0 victory. The United States team advanced to the knockout stage but was eliminated by Brazil, who went on to win its fourth World Cup title.
Ken Griffey Jr. Matches Babe Ruth's Record
In the evening, baseball history was made as Ken Griffey Jr. tied Babe Ruth's record by hitting 30 home runs before June 30. At 8:06 p.m., Griffey hit a solo home run off Kansas City Royals pitcher David Cone, joining Ruth as the only players to achieve this feat. However, the celebration was dampened by the 1994 MLB strike, which led to the cancellation of the World Series for just the second time in history.
The O.J. Simpson Car Chase
As night fell, the day's most dramatic event unfolded. Simpson and his friend Al “A.C.” Cowlings fled from police in a white Ford Bronco, leading to a slow-speed chase that lasted a couple of hours and covered approximately 60 miles of California highways. The chase was broadcast live on every news channel in America, captivating millions. Despite having a gun in the car, Simpson was eventually talked down by police and returned to his home without incident. Crowds lined the streets to witness the chase, which ended when Simpson pulled into his driveway at 10:57 p.m.
NBA Finals Interrupted
Meanwhile, Game 5 of the NBA Finals between the Houston Rockets and New York Knicks was underway. As the game progressed, NBC intermittently preempted the broadcast to provide updates on Simpson's whereabouts, showing the police chase in the main picture. Despite the distractions, the Knicks secured a 91-84 win behind Patrick Ewing's 25 points. Houston's Hakeem Olajuwon led all scorers with 27 points. However, the Knicks eventually lost Games 6 and 7 in Houston, and the Rockets went on to sweep the Orlando Magic in the following season's Finals. The Knicks' championship hopes were dashed again in 1999 when they were defeated by the San Antonio Spurs.
Simpson Taken Into Custody
At 11:47 p.m., the day's tension culminated with the LAPD taking Simpson into custody. After ditching his gun, Simpson exited the Bronco, entered his home, called his mother, and drank a glass of orange juice. He was charged with the murders of his ex-wife and Ronald Goldman. Simpson's high-profile murder trial began in January 1995 and lasted until October, ultimately resulting in his acquittal. However, in a 1997 civil lawsuit, Simpson was found liable for wrongful death and battery, and he was ordered to pay more than $30 million in damages. Simpson passed away on April 10, 2024, at the age of 76 after a battle with cancer.
The events of June 17, 1994, remain etched in the annals of sports history, serving as a stark reminder of the highs and lows that can unfold within a single day.