Miroslav Klose had a storied career with the German national team and a number of Europe’s top football clubs. He remains Germany’s all-time leading goal scorer with 71 goals, as well as the top scorer in FIFA World Cup history with 16 goals, one ahead of Brazil's Ronaldo.
Though he is widely remembered for his prowess in front of goal, one of Klose’s finest moments occurred during a Serie A match in 2012.
As Lazio’s top striker, Klose rose for a ball in the early moments of a game against rival club Napoli. With his arm raised for leverage, the ball came spiralling off his hand and skirted into the back of the net, but the goal was awarded.
While most players would carry on as if nothing had happened, Klose was honest with the referee and admitted that he handled the ball. The goal was chalked off, and Napoli went on to win 3-0.
However, this wasn’t the first time that Klose had displayed such admirable fair play. In 2005 while playing for Werder Bremen, Klose refused to accept a penalty given against Arminia Bielefeld as he felt the decision was incorrect.
A true sportsman and incredible demonstrations of fair play in football.
