On September 29, 1954, Willie Mays, the legendary center fielder for the New York Giants, made one of the most iconic plays in baseball history during Game 1 of the 1954 World Series against the Cleveland Indians at the Polo Grounds in New York City.

In the top of the 8th inning, with the score tied 2-2 and runners on first and second base, Cleveland batter Vic Wertz hit a powerful drive to deep center field. Mays, known for his incredible speed and fielding prowess, turned his back to home plate and sprinted towards the outfield wall.

The ball seemed destined to sail over the fence for a potential go-ahead extra-base hit or even a home run. However, Mays, at full speed, made an over-the-shoulder catch on the warning track, approximately 460 feet from home plate. The catch was so improbable that even Mays himself was stunned that he had caught the ball.

After making the catch, Mays quickly spun around and threw the ball back to the infield, preventing the runners from advancing. The play, which became known as "The Catch," helped preserve the tie and shifted the momentum in the Giants' favor. The Giants went on to win the game in extra innings and eventually swept the series in four games.

Mays' incredible feat is still regarded as one of the greatest defensive plays in World Series history and a testament to his unparalleled skill and athleticism. The image of Mays running at full speed with his back to the plate has become an enduring symbol of baseball excellence and is one of the most recognizable photographs in sports history.