Tom Hicks, the American billionaire whose controversial ownership of Liverpool Football Club created a storm on Merseyside, has died at the age of 79.
A Transatlantic Sports Mogul
Hicks passed away on Saturday, surrounded by his family in Dallas, according to a statement from his company, Hicks Holdings LLC. His death marks the end of a significant, if divisive, chapter in the history of several major sports franchises on both sides of the Atlantic.
In the United States, Hicks built a formidable sporting portfolio. He owned the National Hockey League's Dallas Stars from 1995 to 2011, a period that included the team's triumphant Stanley Cup victory in 1999. His tenure with Major League Baseball's Texas Rangers spanned from 1998 to 2010, culminating in a World Series appearance during his final year with the club.
Turbulent Times at Anfield
However, it was his foray into English football that defined his public image for many UK fans. In 2007, Hicks and fellow American George Gillett acquired a 50% stake in Liverpool FC, promising a new era. Instead, their stewardship became synonymous with fan discontent, financial uncertainty, and heavy debt.
The ownership duo faced intense criticism from the Kop over their management and the club's financial direction. The relationship deteriorated so severely that Hicks and Gillett were forced to sell Liverpool to Fenway Sports Group in 2010, a move that ultimately paved the way for the club's modern successes under the stable ownership of John W. Henry.
Despite the acrimony of that period, Liverpool FC issued a formal statement of condolence. "LFC sends its condolences to the Hicks family and Tom's friends at this difficult time," the club said on Sunday.
Legacy of a "Champion of Sports"
Tributes from the American sporting world highlighted a different legacy. Jerry Jones, owner of the NFL's Dallas Cowboys, described Hicks as a "champion of sports" and a close friend. "He dreamed big and watching him bring the Stanley Cup here to Dallas was something that I will always cherish," Jones said.
Hicks is survived by his wife of 35 years, Cinda Cree Hicks, along with six children and 14 grandchildren. In a family statement, they emphasised that above all his business and sporting achievements, his "most cherished title was 'Dad'". They remembered him for his constant "generosity and love for his family" through all his professional trials.
The passing of Tom Hicks closes a complex narrative of ambition, sporting glory, and controversy, leaving a distinct imprint on the landscapes of both North American sports and the Premier League.
