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ANKARA, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan extended his condolences to Muhammad Ali's wife Lonnie Ali over the phone Saturday, conveying his deepest sadness and blessings.
"Muhammad Ali had an exceptional place among the Turkish nation and Muslims," he said.
Erdogan also posted a message on his personal Twitter account mourning the passing of the legendary boxer.
"Muhammad Ali was an extraordinary athlete and a remarkable man of good deeds who conquered the hearts of millions," said the president.
"Boxing legend Muhammad Ali's life-long struggle against racism and discrimination will never be forgotten," he added.
Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim also offered condolences to the family of Ali in a statement.
Muhammad Ali, a boxing legend who won the heavyweight title three times, died after a 32-year battle with Parkinson's disease at the age of 74 in the U.S. city of Phoenix, Arizona.
