Wahl, who reports on American and world football for CBS Sports and NBC News and previously worked for Sports Illustrated, was “healthy” before collapsing during a game on Friday, according to his brother Eric in an Instagram video.
His agent, Tim Scanlan, told the New York Times that Wahl fell into acute medical distress in the dying minutes of a quarterfinal game he watched from the press box. US media sitting near him reported Wahl fell backwards in the media stand at Lusail Iconic Stadium during extra time and reporters next to him called for help. The reporters reported that rescue workers responded very quickly, and his colleagues later learned that he had died.
His brother Eric, who is gay, said tearfully he believes his brother – who was arrested for wearing a rainbow flag T-shirt ahead of the USA’s opening game against Wales – may have been killed.
“I’m the reason he wore the rainbow shirt at the World Cup. I don’t think my brother just died like that, I think he was killed.
Wahl’s wife, former COVID White House adviser Dr. Celine Gounder, tweeted on Friday night: “I’m so grateful for the support of my husband @GrantWahl’s football family and so many friends who reached out tonight. I am in complete shock.
