Yankees Announcer John Sterling Reveals Heart Attack

Sterling struck an optimistic tone while sharing his health update on WFAN radio.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Legendary New York Yankees radio announcer John Sterling revealed that he suffered a heart attack in January but is now on the mend. During a Sunday interview on WFAN, the venerable announcer struck an optimistic tone while sharing his personal health update, saying "Everything is, I say, good" and that "the heart is fine."

Why it matters

John Sterling has been the voice of the Yankees for over 30 years, becoming an iconic figure in New York sports. His health update is significant news for the team's fanbase and the wider baseball community.

The details

Sterling said the heart attack has affected his legs, causing him to wait for the "force to leave" so he can get back to his broadcasting duties. Despite the health scare, the 84-year-old announcer expressed gratitude, saying "I'm very fortunate. All things are good."

  • In early January 2026, Sterling suffered a heart attack.

The players

John Sterling

The legendary radio voice of the New York Yankees for over 30 years.

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What they’re saying

“Everything is, I say, good. For people who don't know, there isn't any reason to hide it — at the beginning of January — I had a heart attack, and that's fine. The heart is fine. Sometimes, it affects your legs and has affected my legs. So I'm kind of waiting for the force to leave my legs and I can get back out there. I'm very fortunate. All things are good, and it's great to be on with you.”

— John Sterling, Yankees Radio Announcer (WFAN)

What’s next

Sterling is expected to return to the Yankees' broadcast booth once he has fully recovered from the effects of the heart attack on his legs.

The takeaway

The health update from the iconic Yankees announcer John Sterling serves as a reminder of the human side of sports figures and the importance of taking care of one's well-being, even for those at the top of their profession.