Sports · 1918
Sports Carry On Amid War and Pandemic
In 1918, global conflict and the influenza pandemic disrupted athletic calendars worldwide, shortening seasons and canceling major international tournaments. Despite these grim headwinds, historic achievements in baseball, hockey, and horse racing provided a brief, welcome respite for a weary public.
- September 11, 1918 | MLB, United States
Boston Red Sox Win the World Series
The Boston Red Sox defeated the Chicago Cubs in six games to capture their fifth World Series title, marking what would be their last championship victory for 86 years.
- March 30, 1918 | NHL, Canada
Toronto Arenas Capture First NHL Stanley Cup
The Toronto Arenas defeated the PCHA's Vancouver Millionaires in a five-game series to become the first National Hockey League franchise to win the Stanley Cup.
- May 11, 1918 | Horse Racing, USA
Exterminator Pulls Off Kentucky Derby Upset
Subbing for injured stablemate Sun Briar, longshot Exterminator splashed through a muddy track to win the 44th running of the Kentucky Derby at 30-1 odds.
- September 9, 1918 | MLB, United States
Babe Ruth Sets World Series Pitching Record
Playing for the Boston Red Sox, Babe Ruth extended his World Series record to 29 and 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings pitched across two postseasons.
- July 27, 1918 | Boxing, United States
Jack Dempsey Knocks Out Fred Fulton
Heavyweight contender Jack Dempsey cemented his status as the sport's top challenger by leveling Fred Fulton in under twenty seconds in Harrison, New Jersey.
- September 3, 1918 | Tennis, USA
R. Lindley Murray Claims US Tennis Crown
Left-handed star R. Lindley Murray defended his title by defeating Bill Tilden in the men's singles final at the U.S. National Championships.
- June 22, 1918 | Tennis, USA
Molla Bjurstedt Wins Fourth U.S. Title
Norwegian-American dominant force Molla Bjurstedt defeated Eleanor Goss to capture her fourth consecutive U.S. National Women's Singles championship.
- November 1918 | College Football, USA
Pittsburgh Panthers Claim National Title
Coached by Glenn 'Pop' Warner, the Pittsburgh Panthers completed an undefeated season and were recognized as college football national champions.
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