Footballers are not only athletes with million-dollar contracts, but also ordinary people with passions. Some collect cars, others open restaurants. But some find solace in gambling. Casinos, poker, or sports betting attract many gamblers with the same risk-taking drive they experience in other areas. 

Additionally, the competitive spirit that fuels their success on the field often pushes them to seek similar thrills off it. High-pressure careers, constant travel, and the need for mental escapes contribute to the appeal of gambling among athletes. Today, we will tell you about those who do not hide their passion for gambling.

Footballers at the Poker Table: Who’s Playing Like a Pro

Some footballers perceive poker not just as entertainment, but as a real additional profession. Among the most famous poker fans are:

• Neymar is the star of the Brazilian national team and PSG. Neymar regularly participates in international tournaments and even had a sponsorship deal with a major poker brand.
• Gerard Pique is a former player of Barcelona and the Spanish national team, who was seriously involved in poker and played in serious competitions.
• Ronaldo (Brazilian) is a legendary striker who, after his career, actively developed in the world of professional poker.

It is known that for some players, poker becomes a way to develop psychological endurance and resilience, traits that are also important on the field. 

In addition, success in poker requires strategic planning, patience, and the ability to “read” an opponent — skills that directly resonate with the psychological struggle during decisive football matches.

Football Stars Who Chase the Thrill

Many of football stars often visit casinos, where the atmosphere of excitement seems to resemble the tension of big matches. Among them:

• Wayne Rooney — the former captain of the English national team, who has been spotted in various casinos.
• Michael Owen is a legendary Liverpool and England striker who has publicly admitted his love for gambling.
• Mario Balotelli, known for his eccentric behavior, also enjoyed visiting casinos after matches.

Some cases ended in big wins, while others were not the best stories. For example, Rooney, according to media reports, once lost more than 500 thousand pounds in one night in a Manchester casino, a clear confirmation that gambling often comes at a price. Staying in control while betting doesn’t mean sacrificing fun. Check out Smokace Casino platform — it’s designed with smart features that make responsible play simple and intuitive.

Betting on the Game: Footballers Who Wager on Their Own Teams

Sports betting for footballers is another form of gambling. However, it is often accompanied by ethical dilemmas: does a player have the right to bet on his match? Some players could not resist the temptation:

• Joey Barton received a lengthy suspension for betting on matches in which he participated.
• Daniel Sturridge is a famous English forward who was fined for violating betting rules.

Other cases, such as that of Kieran Trippier, who was disqualified for passing on inside information to friends for betting purposes, once again emphasize how blurred the line between personal life and professional ethics is.

Football organizations are now actively fighting such violations. However, the fact remains that gambling is tightly intertwined in the lives of some athletes, and this interaction does not always end well.

When Passion Turns Risky: How Gambling Affects Football Careers

As practice shows, gambling can be both fun and a problem. It all depends on the attitude. There are cases when players lost their fortunes, reputations, and even careers due to uncontrolled gambling. But there is another side: for some people, gambling is a way to train strategic thinking, decision-making speed, and psychological stability.

The principal risks of gambling for football players:

• Financial losses
• Problems with images and contracts
• Psychological dependence and a drop in fitness

In response to these risks, many football clubs now offer counseling services, educational seminars, and mental health support to help players cope with challenges both on and off the field.

Today, successful athletes choose a conscious approach. They find a balance between excitement and control, learn to manage their emotions, and use proven entertainment services that prioritize player safety.