Tens of thousands attend Shane Warne's state memorial to pay their respects to the 'Spin King.'

The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), sometimes known as "The G" by locals, is a sporting Australian shrine. It's a location where legends are born, hearts are broken, and stories that inspire entire countries.

Tens of thousands of fans gathered at the MCG on Wednesday to say farewell to "Spin King" Shane Warne, one of the greatest Australian players ever to walk the field, at his state memorial service.

The 52-year-death old's in Thailand earlier this month after a suspected heart attack shocked the world, prompting tributes from family, friends, and celebrities including Hugh Jackman, Ed Sheeran, and Mick Jagger.

Warne is survived by his three children, Brooke and Summer, as well as son Jackson, who all gave heartbreaking statements Wednesday amid a sea of blonde wigs and posters paying tribute to the cricketer.

Shane's father Keith spoke first on behalf of the family on stage at the MCG, describing his son's death on March 4 as "the saddest day" of their life.
In tribute to Warne, pop singer Elton John sang "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me," a song written by the cricket legend.
The Grammy winner stated, "He was intelligent, he loved to play cricket, and he enjoyed life."

'The Century Ball'

Warne, who made his Australian debut at the age of 22, grew up during a period when fast bowlers were in high demand.
That all changed in 1993, when Warne, then 23 years old, bowled England batsman Mike Gatting with a brilliantly pitched leg break that was termed "the ball of the century."

Warne's bizarre bowling style baffled opponents and enthralled fans, frequently making the best batters appear dumb as they attempted to face unplayable balls that spun in any direction.
When asked how it felt to play against Shane Warne, former England captain Nasser Hussain told the MCG crowd, "I had no pleasure in playing against Shane."

Although the public will remember "Warnie" first and foremost as a once-in-a-generation cricketer, his popularity stretched far beyond the playing field.

He was a cultural export from Australia who epitomized irreverent larrikinism that characterized a generation and drew people from all walks of life.
"Shane Warne has left an indelible mark on cricket and even sport. He was truly a one-of-a-kind Australian cultural figure.

His athleticism was matched by his artistry on the field, and his off-field reputation was legendary "Steven Lustig, 26, who was at the MCG on Wednesday, said CNN.

Warne, who was dubbed "one of Australia's greatest characters," had a knack for having people fall in love with him and an openness that made fans feel as if they knew him personally.

"I enjoy loud music, smoking, drinking, and bowling a little leg-spin. That's me on the left "During a recent documentary on his career, Warne commented in his customary matter-of-fact tone.

"Everyone would light up when Dad walked into a room... his contagious smile and laugh is something I'll never forget," Warne's daughter Summer remarked during her moving tribute.
The night came to a close with the inauguration of the new Shane Warne Stand at the MCG in his honor.

The Frank Sinatra classic "My Way" played over the speakers as Brooke, Jackson, and Summer took their seats in their father's new stand.