When the pressure’s high and the stakes are even higher, many athletes turn to rituals that stretch beyond logic. While talent and training are key, some believe their success hinges on the placement of a lucky item, a pre-game meal, or even total silence. These sports superstitions are passed down through locker rooms and sometimes become as legendary as the games themselves.
Let’s dive into 10 of the strangest sports superstitions that have baffled fans and amused teammates, because when it comes to winning, some athletes will do anything (and we mean anything).
10. Moises Alou’s Bare-Handed Approach
Former MLB player Moises Alou had a unique superstition, he didn’t wear batting gloves. Claiming the gloves affected his grip, he toughened his hands by urinating on them. While this practice seems questionable (and unsanitary), Alou insisted it helped him avoid blisters, making it one of the most bizarre sports superstitions in baseball history.
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9. Jason Giambi’s Golden Thong
When baseball star Jason Giambi hit a slump, he didn’t tweak his swing, he wore a gold thong. Yes, really. And even stranger? He lent it to teammates to break their own unlucky streaks. This infamous undergarment became a clubhouse legend and an example lucky items taken to hilarious extremes.
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8. Serena Williams’ Pre-Match Rituals
Tennis superstar Serena Williams sticks to a very specific routine. She ties her shoelaces in a particular way and bounces the ball exactly five times before her first serve. Though subtle, she credits these rituals with helping her maintain focus. It’s a reminder that not all routines are flashy.
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7. Patrick Roy Talks to the Goalposts
Legendary NHL goalie Patrick Roy believed his goalposts were his best friends. Before and during games, he would talk to them for reassurance and protection. Fans and commentators found it odd, but Roy swore the posts responded to him, making this one of the strangest goalie-related sports superstitions ever.
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6. Rafael Nadal’s OCD-Like Routine
Tennis icon Rafael Nadal’s rituals are so detailed that entire YouTube compilations are dedicated to them. From lining up water bottles with precision to adjusting his shorts and hair the same way between points, Nadal’s habits are intense. Whether it’s superstition or routine-based psychology, it’s impossible to ignore.
5. Wade Boggs and His Chicken Obsession
MLB Hall of Famer Wade Boggs ate chicken before every single game. He even became known as the “Chicken Man.” Beyond his dietary superstition, he also insisted on doing batting practice at exactly 5:17 p.m. and running sprints at 7:17. His strict attention to detail shows how far some sports superstitions go.
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4. Les Miles Eats Grass
Former LSU football coach Les Miles took his connection to the field to an edible level, by literally eating grass from the sideline before games. He believed it brought him closer to the game and helped him stay grounded. It’s definitely one of the most unexpected sports superstitions in college football.
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3. Michael Jordan’s College Shorts
Michael Jordan always wore his University of North Carolina basketball shorts under his NBA uniform. It became a constant reminder of his roots and early success. To accommodate the extra layer, he began wearing longer NBA shorts, sparking a trend that changed basketball fashion forever.
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2. Turk Wendell’s Extreme Habits
Former MLB pitcher Turk Wendell was a superstition king. He chewed licorice while pitching, brushed his teeth between innings, and leapt over the foul lines. His number? 99. Even his contract request was quirky, he asked for $9,999,999.99.
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1. The Playoff Beard Tradition
One of the most widespread sports superstitions, particularly in hockey, is the playoff beard. Players stop shaving once the postseason begins, believing the beard brings luck. It’s not just a superstition now, it’s a tradition seen over decades and has even caught on with fans and entire teams.
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