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August 2, 2024
Antoine Griezmann is a massive admirer of American sports, particularly American football. In the 2023/24 NFL season, he elevated his passion by joining Movistar, the NFL’s Spanish broadcaster, as a guest pundit. Additionally, the French star hosts his podcast, “Grizi Huddle,” where he delves into the latest NFL news and updates.
Padel is a top sport in Spain, and Robert Lewandowski developed a passion for it after joining FC Barcelona in the summer of 2022. He even entered a tournament named the Hexagon Cup. “Padel is the biggest sport in Spain after football and, since living and playing here, I’ve caught the padel fever,” he clarified.
Diego Forlán, who won the Pichichi award in La Liga EA SPORTS for the 2004/05 and 2008/09 seasons, initially favored tennis over football as a child. It was not until he was 12 that he chose to focus on a football career, which he excelled in. Now retired, the Uruguayan has returned to his original passion, participating in and winning matches in veteran tennis tournaments.
Luka Modrić, a passionate tennis enthusiast, frequently attends the Madrid Open each spring when the ATP event comes to the Spanish capital. The Croatian traveled to watch the top tennis stars and was honored as Carlos Alcaraz’s special guest during Alcaraz’s 2024 Wimbledon victory. Besides enjoying the sport as a spectator, Modrić has been seen playing tennis, even winning a charity tournament in Croatia.
Gareth Bale, the former Real Madrid player, was well-known for his love of golf during his spare time, but he was not the only golfer at the club. “Only two of us playing golf in the Real Madrid dressing room,” he once explained. “Thibaut Courtois is the other one who plays, but he is not better than me!” he laughed.
Former Villarreal CF goalkeeper Pepe Reina is a dedicated golf enthusiast who has participated in charity events and golf-related TV shows. After returning to Villarreal CF in 2022, he formed a close friendship with Sergio García, a Masters champion and the all-time top points scorer in Ryder Cup history. This connection led to Villarreal CF partnering with García’s golf academy. García, a passionate football fan and honorary member of Real Madrid, enthusiastically supports the team.
Another ex-LaLiga EA SPORTS goalkeeper passionate about a different sport is Santi Cañizares, the Valencia CF icon. He is an avid rally racing enthusiast, competing in numerous rally events throughout the Valencian Community and Spain. He has even earned a spot on the podium as a champion.
Vini Jr. is renowned as one of the world’s top dribblers, and he may have picked up some skills by observing the athleticism of basketball. The Brazilian frequently attends Real Madrid’s basketball matches and, when he can, catches NBA games. In recent years, he has had the opportunity to meet several of basketball’s biggest stars, including LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Jayson Tatum.
Athletic Club forward Asier Villalibre is not just a Formula 1 fan but also a knowledgeable follower of the sport. He attended the 2024 Spanish Grand Prix in Aston Martin attire, showing support for fellow Spaniard Fernando Alonso. In an interview with DAZN, he demonstrated his expertise by discussing flexi wings.