While many think that footballers live a privileged life, and to some degree they do, it is worth remembering the many sacrifices they have to make to dedicate their lives to the game. In some cases, this can result in being paid astronomical wages, with some, like Mathieu Flamini and Thomas Gravesen, going on to make wise investments that have seen them increase their fortunes significantly.
The high-pressure nature of the game and intensive training schedules mean that many struggle to find an outlet during downtime or when they retire. The competitive nature of athletes often drives them towards games like golf, and in many other cases, card games.
With the funds to back them up, many footballers explore card games as a way to enjoy competitive action without the risk of injury. While casinos offer a variety of card games, many footballers try to stay out of the public eye, and online casinos give them that privacy.
Licensed operations and non GamStop poker sites UK players can access provide a great choice, with many offering enhanced security. This provides a great outlet, considering that gambling on football is not permitted for those involved in the game.
Sports Gambling
Sports gambling is massively popular in the UK, especially for football. However, recent cases of players being banned for betting on games have brought this problem to the attention of the nation.
While the majority of cases cover bets that did not involve the players or their teams, players are still prohibited from betting on football matches. But gambling culture has long been a part of the game, with card schools being a regular part of bus journeys to and from away games.
The modern game has limited this to some extent, especially at the top level, as teams focus on fitness and diets instead of drinking culture and team shenanigans. But some players are still able to bet at home, in casinos, and at tournaments.
Footballers with a Passion for Card Games
The majority of players to ply their trade in the UK before the 2000s will likely have been exposed to some form of gambling on the team bus, with more enjoying nights out at licensed casinos, but there are examples of modern players who also enjoy card games.
Neymar Jr
Neymar Jr is a global megastar, having starred at Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, and is the leading all-time goal scorer for the Brazil national team. As well as being one of the most talented players of his generation, Neymar Jr is also a big poker player. He has competed in live and online poker events like the World Series of Poker, and is also a PokerStars brand ambassador.
Teddy Sheringham
Teddy Sheringham’s long and illustrious career saw him feature in the English top flight for decades. Following his retirement, he dedicated a lot of time to poker, playing at World and European tours, coming 5th in the Portuguese leg of the European tour.
Gerard Piqué
Another former Barcelona star who earned an incredible haul of trophies during his playing career is Gerard Piqué. The Spanish defender is another poker player who has played at major events, winning hundreds of thousands in the process. One of the reasons that Pique and other footballers have enjoyed so much success in poker tournaments is that the majority have already earned a significant sum from their playing days, meaning they are not under as much financial pressure in high-stakes games.
Wayne Rooney
Wayne Rooney enjoyed an incredible career from an early age, going on to become Manchester United and England’s leading scorer, since surpassed at the international level by Harry Kane. Since hanging up his boots, he has had a rocky start to his coaching career, but playing card games like roulette, blackjack, and poker in Manchester casinos has allowed him to enjoy time away from the game.
Gianluigi Buffon
Gianluigi Buffon is one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time, enjoying a career that lasted over two decades in club and international football. His passion for card games has seen him become an ambassador for PokerStars and frequent some of the top Italian casinos.
Thierry Henry
Widely regarded as one of the greatest strikers to play in the Premier League, Thierry Henry is another world-class former player who enjoys the competitive nature and strategy required to succeed at poker. He has taken part in numerous events and charity tournaments since retiring.
Conclusion
There are a variety of factors that make card games the perfect outlet for footballers and ex-players. The competitive nature of card games, coupled with the majority having the funds to compete, makes it an excellent choice for many.
Low-impact pastimes like golf are perfect for players who want to enjoy competition but can’t risk their careers with other contact sports. Card playing can be categorised similarly, as it allows players to compete without risk.
Many casinos will try to provide privacy to high-rollers, and online betting sites give footballers easy access and keep them out of the spotlight.