His former club, the Toronto Maple Leafs, announced the death.

– The Toronto Maple Leafs mourn the loss of Börje Salming. He was a pioneer in the sport and an icon with an unbreakable spirit and tenacity that no one could question. He helped open the door for Europeans in the NHL and became defined by his on-ice play and contributions to society, he says. the message of the Maple Leafs by club president Brendan Shanahan.

Just over a week ago, Salming received accolades from the Maple Leafs in two NHL home games. He let tears flow as the audience stood and clapped.

The moment of time

This summer, Salming said he was diagnosed with ALS. The disease attacks motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. When he was honored in Toronto, Salming was so affected by illness that he had to enlist the help of former teammate Darryl Sittler to get out on the ice.

After the visit to Toronto, Salming also attended a gala in Stockholm where the tribute he received in 1973 from the Canadian public at the Canada Cup was named Sweden’s all-time ice hockey moment. It was his last public appearance.

Close the door

– Now we close the door. From now on, only the family counts, said then his wife Pia.

Salming was born in Kiruna in 1951. He managed to win two SC gold medals with Brynäs before becoming an NHL professional in 1973. He played over 1,000 games with the Maple Leafs and is considered the one of the greatest players in this sport.

– Börje joined the Maple Leafs 50 years ago and will always be part of our hockey family. Our deepest condolences to his wife Pia, the six children and his brother, reads the message from the Maple Leafs.