George Zaharias Autographs, Memorabilia & Collectibles

Born on February 28, 1909, in Pueblo, Colorado, George Zaharias was a prominent American wrestler and sports promoter of the 20th century. Known by his ring name "The Crying Greek from Cripple Creek", Zaharias started his professional wrestling career in the early 1930s and was recognized for his formidable prowess and charismatic performances.

Beyond his wrestling career, Zaharias made notable contributions as a sports promoter. His efforts were instrumental in the organization of the first nationally-televised golf tournament in 1953, which paved the way for the widespread broadcasting of golf events, subsequently increasing the sport's popularity. Zaharias was perhaps best known for his marriage to Mildred Ella "Babe" Didrikson, one of the greatest female athletes of all time. The couple married in 1938, and their partnership marked a significant period in Zaharias's life. As Babe's manager, he played a crucial role in fostering her professional golf career. The couple jointly operated a golf course in Tampa, Florida, named the Tampa Golf and Country Club, where Zaharias continued his career as a sports promoter.