Late soccer writer Grant Wahl gets beautiful tribute in new episode of 'Ted Lasso'

The Apple+ soccer comedy "Ted Lasso" paid tribute to late sportswriter Grant Wahl in its latest episode, and since the show is all about heart, kindness and friendship, it couldn't have felt more fitting.

In the newest episode of season 3, "Big Week," Wahl was honored just before the end credits.

There was also another subtle Wahl tribute. Coach Beard, played by show co-creator and executive producer Brendan Hunt, can be seen holding Wahl's book "The Beckham Experiment."

Hunt told The Hollywood Reporter that Wahl was more than just a fan of the show. He actually helped the writers with a storyline involving reporter Trent Crimm writing a book about the new superstar that has come to the team — a storyline that was reminiscent of Wahl's own experience writing "The Beckham Experiment," about David Beckham pulling up stakes in Europe and going to the L.A. Galaxy.

Wahl, who spent decades covering sports, died in November during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. He passed out during the Argentina-Netherlands match and never regained consciousness. Foul play was initially suspected, as Wahl had been an outspoken critic of Qatar's treatment of migrant workers. But Dr. Celine Gounder, Wahl's wife, said that an autopsy showed he'd died from an aortic aneurysm.

There was an outpouring of grief and love when Wahl's death was announced. He was a beloved husband, son, brother, friend and mentor to numerous young writers. His love and passion for soccer was infectious in the best way, because he could pass it on to others through his writing. He helped grow the sport in the United States, and even though "Ted Lasso" is about a soccer team in England, it was the perfect show to honor him.