Sports players become stars because they have something within them – something that thrives on thrills, excitement, competition and winning… and often this isn’t simply reserved for their sport. In fact, many famous sports stars enjoy the thrill of competition not only on the field or court but also on the casino floor – where they can dip into their millions to test their skills and strategies against others. When they’re not training or competing, these athletes are often found testing their luck and skills at various casino games.
From poker to blackjack and slot machines, here are some well-known sports stars who love hitting the casino floor:
Michael Jordan
Known as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, Michael Jordan is also an avid gambler. It is not uncommon for him to show his face at various casinos in Las Vegas and Atlantic City, often playing high-stakes games. His love for gambling has even made headlines over the years – and he’s even been involved in some high-profile betting controversies.
Wayne Rooney
Former English football captain Wayne Rooney has been spotted at casinos on multiple occasions. As well as trying his luck at the best online casino UK sites, he also has a reputation for enjoying in-person poker games… and has even participated in charity poker events. Rooney’s interest in gambling (along with other interests that go along with it) has occasionally made headlines in the press.
Floyd Mayweather Jr.
As one of the most successful boxers in history, Floyd Mayweather Jr. is no stranger to risk and reward. He’s well-known for his extravagantly expensive lifestyle and has shared photos on social media showcasing his big wins at the casino. He’s very much into a bit of everything… blackjack, poker and sports betting, among other games.
Tiger Woods
Golf legend Tiger Woods has been known for many things during his time in sport – one of those is his penchant for frequenting casinos during his downtime. While he prefers to keep his personal life relatively private, there have been several reports of him enjoying poker and blackjack and it seems his competitive nature on the golf course may also extend to the casino tables.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Footie superstar Cristiano Ronaldo is not only known for his skills on the pitch but also for his love of luxury and gambling and is one of the most highest earning footballers of all time. Not liking to just stick to his local establishments, he has been seen at casinos around the world – and there are rumours that he particularly enjoys playing poker and roulette. No doubt his status as one of the highest-paid sports mega stars means he has plenty of spare change to indulge in his passion for casino games.
John Daly
Professional golfer John Daly is practically as famous for his off-the-course antics as he is for his skill on the greens. Not just a lover of the gambling world, Daly has admitted to struggling with gambling addiction throughout his career – and his love for casinos has caused him financial troubles in the past. Hopefully, he can keep his passion under control.
Allen Iverson
Former NBA star Allen Iverson is another player with a reputation for enjoying the lights and glamour of the casino scene. He has been seen several times at casinos in Atlantic City and Las Vegas, often playing for big money. He too has had issues with keeping it fun and his love for gambling has also led to some financial challenges.
Neymar Jr.
Brazilian soccer sensation Neymar Jr. is known for his flashy lifestyle, and he’s not shy about showing any area of his life on social media – and that includes his jaunts to casinos. While he hasn’t necessarily spoken publicly about his gambling habits, it’s well-known that he loves to take a chance at the blackjack table.
Sports stars are famous for their love of gambling. They know what the thrill and adrenaline is like in the toughest competition on the biggest stage in the world – and it’s hard to replicate that. One way of doing so is through playing high-stakes casino games… relying on luck, skill and strategy. That’s why so many sports stars love to hit the casino – and will likely continue to do so.