Top-tier footballers who have graced poker or casino advertisements

Every year, this beloved card game continues to charm more football players into playing - and for a good reason. The adrenaline-pumping excitement of poker tournaments in online casinos is quite similar to that experienced by football players. The thrill and intensity are highly relatable for participants despite being two different activities.
Further, poker is an exercise in psychological fortitude and requires a mix of strategies like that which you may see on the football field. Football players have distinct opinions when it comes to poker. Generally, they partake in the game for enjoyment and as a leisurely activity with friends. On the other hand, some professional athletes not only succeed but also win notable tournaments and even consider transitioning to poker after their sports career.
Harnessing the power of professional athletes to promote gambling products is a fantastic way to boost sales and gain greater visibility for your brand. Harnessing the star power of world-renowned athletes who also play top-notch online pokies is a highly profitable avenue for advertising gambling firms due to their massive global fanbases. When it comes to gaming, the online casino industry is no exception. Despite being worth millions, select best online casinos for real money are willing to assist athletes in exchange for their marketing and promotional efforts. Check out the list of renowned sports personalities who have shown their gambling support!
Neymar Jr. cooperates with PokerStars
Any dedicated football fan holds Neymar in the highest regard, and rightfully so; after a successful showing at the World Cup, he has earned his rightful place as one of the top five best-paid players. PokerStars partnership with one of the most accomplished footballers is based on this rationale.
As part of this collaboration, he plays in intense online tournaments with some of the world's most renowned poker gamers. During the off-season, Neymar excels at organizing high-profile tournaments for athletes and celebrities within his home. He has achieved great success in officially sanctioned games as well. The record-holding scorer for the Brazilian national team ended in sixth place at this year's BSOP, earning an impressive 18,000 euros!
The promotion of BetHard by Zlatan Ibrahimovic
The superstar from Sweden, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, is one of the most renowned footballers globally. After leaving Manchester United and signing up with Los Angeles Galaxy recently, he became one of the world's highest-paid athletes.
BetHard, the renowned British online casino, has joined forces with a famous footballer to fuse football and gambling to attract more customers. Zlatan Ibrahimovic has become an ambassador and shareholder of this renowned sports betting and online casino website, featuring in television commercials and other company promotions.
PokerStars and Cristiano Ronaldo
Renowned around the globe, it is no surprise that Cristiano Ronaldo has joined PokerStars in partnership and is now their official ambassador.
PokerStars has made a concerted effort to bring the renowned Portuguese man on as one of their ambassadors, and it's easy to understand why. In addition, he promotes the popular poker website and participates in some live events - both impressive feats. With the recruitment of Cristiano Ronaldo, poker gained massive popularity among football fans and swiftly spread worldwide. This event brought new players to this card game, making it one of the most popular games today.
After joining PokerStars, Cristiano Ronaldo admitted to playing poker for a few years. In an interview, the footballer explained his fondness for the challenge of this card game: "I love playing with those who are victorious and thrive on its competitive nature!" Despite this, poker remains a significant part of the culture in Portugal; it's an activity to bring family and friends closer together. However, despite numerous tournaments held throughout the country, football star Cristiano Ronaldo has yet to play.
Gianluigi Buffon: Ex-goalkeeper enjoys playing poker
PokerStars has signed one of football's greatest goalkeepers to an exclusive contract! At the presentation, Gianluigi Buffon enthusiastically exclaimed, "Living life is something I take great joy in; that's why poker is such a big challenge for me!" The Italian has been in various exhibitions and charitable tournaments, where he engaged with opponents from the globe's largest poker room - all through an online platform.
Gianluigi Buffon isn't dishonest when speaking of his love for poker. As an avid online player, the ex-Juventus goalkeeper can often be seen at a virtual poker table - under the alias "Gigi Buffon" and without any attempt to hide his identity.
Ronaldo: skipped the Ballon d'Or for a poker tournament
Pioneering the world of football and poker, "Phenomenon" was one of the earliest football celebrities to make poker a hit among passionate fans. In 2013, the iconic Brazilian inked a deal with PokerStars. Many were convinced that Ronaldo would only be a figurehead for the poker room and his name would serve merely as promotional material. Instead, the two-time world champion delved into poker, seeking tips from professional players and different game strategies. It wasn't until 1999 when Ronaldo played for Inter Milan, he confessed to falling in love with poker.
The celebrated two-time Ballon d'Or holder has contested numerous offline tournaments. Although the Brazilian has yet to reach his desired levels of success, he still has some accomplishments he can be proud of. In 2015, Ronaldo excelled at the PokerStars Caribbean Adventure tournament in the Bahamas, earning a staggering $42,000 and ranking 26th among all competitors. The intensity of the ex-footballers love for poker was made strikingly apparent when he decided to skip the Ballon d'Or ceremony to participate in PCA, a testament to his undying passion.
Conclusion
It's remarkable how famous footballers have found such a deep appreciation for poker. Despite their respective legacies in football, they remain devoted to learning more about this card game and participating in tournaments worldwide. Their influence has undoubtedly been instrumental in increasing the popularity of poker among football fans and the world at large.