John Feinstein passed away on March 13, 2025, at the age of 69. The news was confirmed by his brother, Robert Feinstein, to The Washington Post, where John had been a longtime sportswriter and columnist.
Feinstein died at Robert’s home in McLean, Virginia, though the cause of death has not been disclosed.
Feinstein, a graduate of Duke University, was best known for his time at the Post. He graduated and joined the Post as a night police reporter in 1977.
He was inducted into the National Sports Media Association Hall of Fame in 2012.
Feinstein wrote more than 40 books, including bestsellers ‘A Good Walk Spoiled’ and ‘A Season on the Brink.’ He was actively working until the end, with his final column on Michigan State coach Tom Izzo published by The Washington Post on the morning of March 13, just hours before his death.
The sports world has been mourning his loss, with tributes highlighting his immense contributions to journalism and storytelling, particularly in college basketball and golf.
Feinstein was married to Christine and had three children.
Posts on X and reports from outlets like Golfweek, The Athletic, and Golf Digest reflect the widespread sentiment of shock and sadness at his sudden passing.
