Cristiano Ronaldo may be the world’s greatest footballer, but his talents extend far beyond the pitch.
In recent years, Ronaldo has proven himself to be an exceptional poker player. How? Why?
Let’s take a closer look.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Journey to PokerStars
PokerStars is one of the biggest poker brands on the planet. This online cardroom has control of more than two-thirds of the internet’s massive poker market, and is accessible both in-browser or via mobile apps.
And in 2015, Cristiano Ronaldo was announced as a Team PokerStars member. He has served as a brand ambassador to bring PokerStars to wider attention and draw new players to the exciting world of online poker.
“I love the competition, strategy, and fun,” Cristiano Ronaldo told PokerStars. “Although football is my world, poker has always been my game.”
He famously played against Breaking Bad and El Camino star Aaron Paul in a charity game — and actually won $15,000 for Save the Children.
The game was noted for its entertainment value, as Paul’s respect for Ronaldo shone throughout. Both brought different strategies to the table: the footballer took a more tactical approach, while Paul was a little more adventurous.
More than Just a Name: Recognizing Ronaldo’s Poker Skills
PokerStars obviously approached Cristiano Ronaldo because he’s one of the most recognizable sports stars of all time and a household name. But not just any celebrity can secure a place as a Team PokerStars member.
Any well-known figure in the public eye must be able to play poker to a good standard to qualify. It’s not just about seeing which well-known name PokerStars can attract next — it’s about bringing experienced, passionate poker players on board.
And Cristiano Ronaldo certainly fulfils this criteria. He’s played poker for a long time, and wears an impressive poker face during games — as he demonstrated. while playing against Aaron Paul. His years of practice definitely paid off when he walked away from the table a winner, and his composure during the game showed the world he’s genuinely serious about poker.
The Link Between Poker and Football
It’s no surprise that Cristiano Ronaldo shines at the poker table and on the football pitch.
Both games revolve around strict rules and intricate tactics. Football demands greater physical exertion and fitness, but playing poker well requires a solid grasp of the complex rules.
A strategic mindset and good sense for valuable opportunities is a real benefit in both football and poker, too. And Ronaldo clearly has both in abundance.
It’s a testament to Ronaldo’s character and will to succeed that he’s gained recognition across two such disparate fields. Playing both to a high standard requires commitment, determination, and risk.
After all, players need to consider exhaustion, disappointment, injuries, and allowing the whole world to see their mistakes during games.
While anyone might have a kick around with a ball or enjoy a few hands of poker with friends, playing at a professional level is entirely different. Fortunately, we can all agree — Ronaldo is a genuine talent who inspires and entertains in both fields.
What do you think about Cristiano Ronaldo’s poker career? Should he take part in more celebrity poker matches, and if so, who do you want to see him play?
