There’s no arguing that smoking and athletic performance aren’t exactly compatible. However, some well-known athletes have succumbed to the allure of nicotine, either during or after their playing careers.
Take a peek at these ten athletes who smoke:
1. Alex Rodriguez – Major League Baseball
Alex Rodriguez is one of the most reviled figures in sports, owing to his role in the performance-enhancing drug scandal that rocked Major League Baseball. But there’s no denying that he’s one of the greatest players of all time.
When he feels like there’s something meaningful to celebrate, “A-Rod” has been known to light up a particularly costly cigar. Rodriguez, knowing him, seems unconcerned with what others think of his cigar habit.
2. Shane Warne (cricket)
Shane Warne is regarded as one of the best cricketers of all time, capable of making the ball spin in various bizarre ways.
He was noted for his brilliance throughout his career, but he was also not the most professional. One of his main issues was his weight, and he didn’t help matters by smoking.
Warne smoked and was frequently spotted with a cigarette in one hand throughout his playing career. He did make a lot of money as the face of Nicorette, which he was permitted to keep even after he was caught smoking.
3. Soccer player Jack Wilshere
Jack Wilshere is a British soccer player best known for his time at Arsenal. However, he now plays for West Ham United.
He’s had a tough career, as he’s been plagued by ailments, which have handicapped him at both the club and international levels.
Wilshere has been caught smoking numerous times, resulting in unfavorable reports in UK publications. In 2015, he was caught on camera smoking a shisha pipe, which made headlines.
4. NBA legend Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan is unquestionably the best basketball player of all time. The famous player was the Chicago Bulls star, who won six championships during his career. He’s also been chosen NBA MVP five times, which further adds to his brilliance.
Jordan is a cigarette smoker, and he smoked a cigar before every NBA game he played in at one point in his career to unwind.
He’s now frequently seen smoking a Cuban cigar in his mouth, especially while playing golf.
5. Golfer John Daly
Daly has to be at the top of the list when it comes to finding the oddest sports celebrity.
Despite being overweight, virtually addicted to gambling, and smoking regularly during his career, he managed to win three major tournaments and earn millions.
Daly was frequently observed walking around the course with a cigarette in his mouth. While golf isn’t the most physically demanding sport, watching a golfer be open about smoking is rare.
6. Randy Moss (NFL)
Randy Moss is one of the most well-known players in the National Football League’s history.
The wide receiver was named to the Pro Bowl six times throughout his career and owned the record for most touchdown receptions in a season. In 2018, he was admitted into the Hall of Fame for his achievements.
On the other hand, Moss sparked controversy in 2005 when he acknowledged using cannabis regularly throughout his playing career. He also smoked cigarettes frequently, which many believe contributed to his later bad performance.
7. Mario Balotelli (soccer)
Mario Balotelli is one of the most contentious players in soccer.
The Italian striker has a long list of disciplinary issues with eight different teams. Many feel that his disciplinary problems have prevented him from reaching his full potential.
The striker has been caught smoking on several occasions, including when he was caught smoking in an Italian train restroom. However, his other escapades have diverted attention away from his smoking.
8. Quinton Jackson (MMA)
MMA is the most physically demanding of all combat sports, forcing contestants to give their all to become as strong, fit, and proficient as possible. Quinton “Rampage” Jackson is one of the most well-known UFC fighters, yet he smoked for many years while training.
Jackson’s most famous smoking photo was taken at UFC 110, where he proudly smoked in front of the crowd. However, smoking is nothing compared to the previous incidents where he has been accused of racism and driving recklessly.
9. Ricardo Mayorga (Boxing)
Ricardo Mayorga, a Nicaraguan boxer, is one of the most divisive individuals in the sport’s history.
His trash-talking drew a lot of attention before fights, and he smoked and frequently drank throughout his career – which didn’t stop him from winning multiple key titles.
Mayorga has been photographed with a cigarette numerous times, adding to his fascination and unique methods. In news conferences, he would even smoke, frequently blowing smoke at opponents.
10. NFL quarterback Tom Brady
With six Super Bowl rings under his belt, Tom Brady is widely recognized as the greatest NFL player of all time. He’s also won the Super Bowl MVP award four times. He hasn’t been without controversy, such as the infamous “Deflategate” scandal, which resulted in a suspension.
When he was found smoking in 2009, he sparked controversy. He was compelled to apologize to his supporters and sponsors and give up the habit sake of his squad.