Sports Stars and Casino: Successful Games for Successful People
It’s no secret that many celebrities often or occasionally gamble. Sports is no exception. For many footballers, boxers, and representatives of other sports, visiting casinos has become a habit. Is it good or bad?
Here, opinions differ greatly. Some believe that with the ability to control their emotions and material costs, gambling is just a harmless hobby. Pessimists believe that such a hobby can negatively affect sports results. One way or another, by demonstrating their confidence and ability to keep their balance, these athletes prove that their sporting career remains at the forefront of their minds.
Lucky and Regular
Athletes whose game in the legal casinos, like at https://polskiesloty.com/legalne-kasyna/, has become an object of public attention can be divided into two groups. Lucky — these are sportsmen who visit gambling establishments rarely but have large winnings on their accounts. Regulars visit the casino regularly. Let’s start with Lucky.
Michael Jordan
Few people know that the best player in the history of the NBA, one of the most titled and richest athletes in the world, likes to visit casinos. Michael himself said that at some period, he began to feel that an addiction was emerging. It happened during that period when, in 1993 he “managed” to lose more than $57000.
However, Jordan was able to prove to himself and the whole world that he was able to control his actions and get only pleasure and benefit from the game. After retiring, the athlete began to study in detail the psychology of the game of blackjack. In one of the successful games, his winnings totaled almost 1000000! This fact gives every reason to classify Jordan as Lucky.
Floyd Mayweather Jr.
The professional boxing star, who competed in the ring from 1996 to 2017, is known for his passion for betting and gambling. If we take into account that Mayweather Jr. earned millions from his boxing fights, then “modest” losses of 10 – 20 thousand were not a problem for him. The boxer treats the game as ordinary entertainment. However, excitement is excitement. Therefore, having won $100,000 at Duke’s in 2018, Floyd rejoiced at the success like a child!
Cristiano Ronaldo
The most prolific footballer at the national team level, a multiple Ballon d’Or winner, one of the highest-paid athletes in the world, and the first person in history to have 500 million followers on Instagram are not all the titles that characterize the Portuguese footballer. During the relaxation period, Cristiano plays poker. He does it not for money, which Ronaldo has enough. So, in 2016, he won more than $15,000, and all his winnings were transferred to the charity Save the Children! Thus, he not only received moral satisfaction and helped children but also supported his reputation.
Regular TOP 5
The following are the most avid casino players who are world-class athletes. Note that responsible gambling is of great importance to each of them. Not only do they enjoy playing in casinos, but they also advocate moderation and awareness of gambling.
1. Charles Barkley
Former NBA superstar Charles Barkley is known for his gambling exploits almost as much as his basketball skills. Barkley’s love of gambling is no secret: his favorite games are Blackjack and Poker.
2. Wayne Rooney
English football icon Wayne Rooney openly talks about his addiction to gambling. Rooney’s passion for blackjack and roulette has repeatedly become the subject of the press, reflecting the ups and downs of the gambler’s journey.
3. Michael Phelps
Olympic swimming legend Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time, is known for his passion for poker. Phelps has been seen participating in various poker tournaments, demonstrating his competitive spirit even outside the pool.
4. John Daly
Professional golfer John Daly is synonymous with gambling as much as he is with golf. Daly’s autobiography details his experiences with gambling, giving a glimpse into the life of an athlete indulging in high-stakes casino games.
5. Mario Balotelli
Italian footballer Mario Balotelli, known for his unpredictable character both on and off the field, also does not mind having fun in the casino. Balotelli’s visits to casinos give his public persona an air of mystery.
Thus, it is safe to say that professional sports and casino games are quite a normal combination. As proof for gambling haters, let us add that this option is much better than sports and alcohol or, even worse, drugs! The main thing is not to forget that this is just a game. Let’s conclude this article with Michael Jordan’s words: “Yes, I’ve been in situations I didn’t avoid – I tried to go beyond the limits of what was possible. Is that a mania? Yes, but it also depends on how you look at it. If you’re willing to jeopardize your existence and your family’s, then yes.”