Lou Gehrig Quotes

Powerful Lou Gehrig for Daily Growth

About Lou Gehrig

Lou Gehrig (1903-1941), born Harold Henry Gehrig in New York City, was an American professional baseball player who spent his entire 15-year career with the New York Yankees. Known as 'The Iron Horse,' he is celebrated for his unparalleled durability and consistency, breaking numerous records during his illustrious tenure. Born to German immigrants, Gehrig excelled in various sports from a young age. However, it was baseball that captured his heart, and by the age of 20, he was called up to play for the Yankees. During this time, he developed a close friendship with Babe Ruth, learning valuable lessons about teamwork, sportsmanship, and perseverance from the legendary player. Gehrig quickly established himself as one of baseball's greatest players. In 1927, during what became known as 'Murderers' Row,' he helped the Yankees achieve a record-breaking 110 wins in a single season and set the then-major league record for home runs by a rookie (23). In 1934, Gehrig played in every game of the regular season—a streak that continued until 1939, when he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), now widely known as Lou Gehrig's Disease. Despite this devastating diagnosis, Gehrig continued to play, setting a new record for consecutive games played at 2,130. On July 4, 1939, during his farewell speech at Yankee Stadium, Gehrig humbly referred to himself as "the luckiest man on the face of the earth." This poignant statement encapsulated his indomitable spirit and unyielding optimism in the face of adversity. Lou Gehrig's impact extends far beyond baseball fields, inspiring millions with his courage, determination, and grace in the face of insurmountable odds. His legacy continues to resonate as a powerful testament to human resilience and the enduring power of hope.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I consider the work done and the fight won."

Lou Gehrig's quote, "I consider the work done and the fight won," signifies a sense of fulfillment and victory over adversity. In this context, "the work" refers to his extraordinary career as a baseball player, while "the fight" symbolizes his arduous battle against the debilitating disease that bears his name - Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). His statement underscores his acceptance of his fate, accompanied by a profound sense of accomplishment and peace. This quote serves as an inspiration for those facing challenges in life, encouraging resilience, determination, and the grace to acknowledge one's triumphs even amidst adversity.


"Today I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the earth."

Lou Gehrig's statement "Today I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the earth" is an expression of gratitude despite his challenging circumstances. Diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sculerosis), a debilitating illness, he recognized and appreciated the blessings in his life beyond his physical abilities, including his successful career as a professional baseball player, strong family ties, and the love and support from friends and fans. This quote emphasizes the importance of finding contentment and joy in one's experiences, even during difficult times, by focusing on gratitude and appreciation for what one has rather than dwelling on what is lost.


"Facing the forces of adversity, a man's got to ask himself whether or not he's got the guts to keep on fighting."

Lou Gehrig's quote emphasizes resilience in the face of challenges. It suggests that when confronted with adversity, an individual must have the courage and determination to persevere, to maintain their struggle, instead of giving up or backing down. This quote is inspiring because it highlights the strength and spirit required to overcome difficulties, encouraging us all to find our inner fortitude and keep pushing forward.


"I know you didn't come to hear me talk, but I will tell you this: I feel like the good fellow I have always been - well, maybe not quite so strong."

In this quote, Lou Gehrig expresses a profound sense of self-awareness in the face of adversity. Despite being diagnosed with a fatal illness (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, or ALS), he continues to see himself as the same person he has always been – strong, resilient, and good-natured. However, his use of "maybe not quite so strong" suggests a humble acknowledgement that his physical strength may be waning, but his character remains steadfast. This quote encapsulates Gehrig's unwavering spirit and determination, even as he faced the most challenging of circumstances.


"So I just want to tell you all - I'm feeling good. Everybody's asking me how I am, and I just say if I didn't have this darn thing called A-L (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), I never felt better."

Lou Gehrig, in his famous "Thank You" speech, conveyed that despite being diagnosed with a debilitating disease called Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), he was feeling well in spirit, expressing optimism and gratitude for the support from his fans and friends. His words serve as a testament to his resilience and unwavering positivity in the face of adversity.


In the beginning I used to make one terrible play a game. Then I got so I'd make one a week and finally I'd pull a bad one about once a month. Now, I'm trying to keep it down to one a season.

- Lou Gehrig

Game, Play, Week, Season

What are you going to do? Admit to yourself that the pitchers have you on the point of surrender? You can't do that. You must make yourself think that the pitchers are just as good as they always have been or just as bad.

- Lou Gehrig

Think, Always, Pitchers, Surrender

When you have a father and a mother who work all their lives so you can have an education and build your body - it's a blessing.

- Lou Gehrig

Work, Education, Lives, Blessing

There is no room in baseball for discrimination. It is our national pastime and a game for all.

- Lou Gehrig

Game, Pastime, National, National Pastime

The ballplayer who loses his head, who can't keep his cool, is worse than no ballplayer at all.

- Lou Gehrig

Head, Keep, His, Loses

When you have a wonderful mother-in-law who takes sides with you in squabbles with her own daughter - that's something.

- Lou Gehrig

Wonderful, Own, Something, Sides

When you have a wife who has been a tower of strength and shown more courage than you dreamed existed - that's the finest I know.

- Lou Gehrig

Strength, Wife, Been, Tower

I'm not a headline guy. I know that as long as I was following Ruth to the plate I could have stood on my head and no one would have known the difference.

- Lou Gehrig

Could, Ruth, Stood, Following

I love to win; but I love to lose almost as much. I love the thrill of victory, and I also love the challenge of defeat.

- Lou Gehrig

Love, Defeat, I Love, Thrill

I might have had a tough break; but I have an awful lot to live for.

- Lou Gehrig

Break, Lot, Awful Lot, Tough

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