It has been eight years since Derek Jeter bid farewell to the game. With a career that spanned over 20 years, Jeter played only for the New York Yankees. And by the time he retired from the game, Jeter became a symbolic figure for the Pinstripes.

Although Jeter was an exceptional ballplayer, he became one of the biggest sports personalities in America because of the unconditional love and admiration he received from his fans. And being a gentleman, when America needed their hero in a time of crisis, the Yankees legend stood by their side.

Derek Jeter opened up about his experience when he had an opportunity to put smiles on people after the tragic 9/11

Per an exclusive interview with Karl Ravech of ESPN in 2017, the retired Yankee detailed his experience about how he tried to put smiles on people’s faces when they suffered the most in the tragic 9/11.

“Tragic events, you know, I have to give you more than just one word. It was a tragic, tragic event, obviously. That goes without saying. But for us to be in New York and sort of represent the city of New York at that time, probably one of the proudest moments of my career…,” Jeter said.

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Derek Jeter admitted he will never forget those times.

“The people of New York and the family members that we … had an opportunity to meet with lost loved ones, telling us that we were giving them an opportunity to entertain for a few hours; And put smiles on their faces is one of the things that I will never forget for my career,” Jeter added.

Jeter: A Yankees unicorn

As earlier mentioned, Derek Jeter has become a symbolic figure for The Bronx Bombers. But how did he become so? At times, several MLB pundits have often pointed out Jeter’s numbers in the game and questioned his legacy.

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But there is a reason why even baseball fans adored him. While playing the game, Jeter always prioritized the team ahead of himself. And considering his selflessness for so many years, the Yankees also honored him by retiring his jersey number #2. The two parties helped each other grow.

What do you think of Jeter’s legacy in Major League Baseball?