This is a simple portrait of a complex man. There are many complex men, but this is the great Diego Maradona - perhaps the most skilled footballer ever to grace the world stage. It was one of my earliest photographs good enough for others to see and I will always cherish it.
I took it in Mexico City in 1986 - a city and a year closely associated with Maradona. It was a World Cup that will always be remembered and remembered because of him.
Maradona was so dominant in all his matches that my camera struggled to focus on any other player. Theirs were mere cameo roles against the main act. He dominated his stage with a zest and skill level that perhaps only his fellow Argentinian Lionel Messi has ever matched. I feel very fortunate to have photographed both sporting icons.
In 1986 there was no autofocus and the cameraman had to move the focus manually - not an easy trick in such moments. But my position in this group game against Bulgaria was a stroke of luck and I took the opportunity. It was the start of a long journey.
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