Image source: caughtoffside.com
Former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar is reportedly planning to become a professional poker player once he retires from football, with the Brazilian forward already having competed at poker tournaments while still active at Santos.
Neymar Sets Sights on Professional Poker Career Following Football Retirement
The 33-year-old Brazilian forward, currently back at his first club Santos, still has several years remaining at the highest level but has already begun planning his post-playing career around competitive poker. Neymar has previously participated in poker tournaments and intends to pursue the game at a professional level once his football commitments conclude.
The former Brazil international joins several high-profile footballers who have shown interest in poker, including Cristiano Ronaldo and Gerard Pique, who have also competed in tournaments during their careers. However, Neymar’s commitment to developing his poker skills appears more serious than casual participation, with plans to transition into the professional circuit after hanging up his boots.
Neymar’s poker ambitions have already faced early setbacks, as he was eliminated in the early stages of a tournament that took place several months ago. The experience highlighted the learning curve he faces in transitioning from football to professional poker, where different skills and mental approaches are required for sustained success at the highest level.
The Santos forward’s interest in poker has drawn some criticism from observers who questioned whether his focus on activities outside football affected his commitment during his playing career, particularly during his time at Paris Saint-Germain. Critics suggested that Neymar’s various interests, including poker, may have prevented him from reaching his full potential as one of the game’s all-time greats.
Despite the early tournament elimination, Neymar is expected to continue practicing and developing his poker skills while still active as a footballer. The Brazilian’s transition plans include securing sponsorship deals within the poker industry, leveraging his global profile to establish himself in the professional poker circuit once his football career concludes.
