Superstition and sports have always gone hand in hand, with many athletes believing in various rituals and superstitions to gain an edge over their opponents. From wearing lucky socks to following a strict pre-game routine, these superstitions may seem odd to some, but to the athletes, they serve as a way to feel in control of the unpredictable nature of the game. Recently, a strange rumor about Serena Williams sparked a conversation about superstitions in sports, with two MLB stars, Pete Alonso and Mookie Betts, confessing to their own pre-game rituals.
The rumor in question was about Serena Williams wearing the same pair of socks throughout her entire Wimbledon run in 2018, which ultimately led her to the finals. While this may seem like a mere coincidence, it sparked a discussion about the role of superstitions in sports. Many athletes, including Williams, have their own set of rituals that they believe bring them luck and success on the court or field.
For Serena Williams, it’s not just about wearing the same socks. She also has a strict pre-match routine, which involves listening to the same music, tying her shoelaces in a certain way, and bouncing the ball five times before her first serve. This routine has become a crucial part of her game, and she believes that deviating from it could affect her performance.
Similarly, New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso has his own set of superstitions. He believes in the power of numbers and has a specific number of swings he takes before each game. He also has a lucky bat that he uses for every game, and if he hits a home run with it, he will continue using it until it breaks. These superstitions may seem trivial to some, but for Alonso, they have become a crucial part of his game.
Mookie Betts, who plays for the Los Angeles Dodgers, also has his own pre-game rituals. He always has a peanut butter and jelly sandwich before every game, and if he has a good game, he will continue eating the same sandwich for the next game. He also has a lucky necklace that he wears during every game, and if he forgets to put it on, he believes it could affect his performance.
While these superstitions may seem strange to some, they serve as a way for athletes to feel in control of the unpredictable nature of sports. In a game where anything can happen, having a routine or ritual can bring a sense of comfort and familiarity for athletes. It’s a way for them to mentally prepare and stay focused on their performance.
Moreover, these superstitions can also serve as a source of motivation. When an athlete believes that a particular ritual or item brings them luck, they will do everything in their power to stick to it. This can help them stay motivated and give their best on the field.
However, it’s worth noting that these superstitions are not the sole reason for an athlete’s success. Their hard work, talent, and dedication play a much more significant role in their performance. But if these rituals and superstitions give them an added boost of confidence, then there’s no harm in following them.
In the end, superstitions in sports are an age-old tradition that will continue to exist. Whether it’s wearing the same socks or eating a specific meal before a game, these rituals have become a part of an athlete’s routine. And while they may seem strange to some, they serve as a way for athletes to feel in control and motivated on the field. So the next time you see an athlete with a lucky charm or following a strict pre-game routine, remember that it’s just their way of staying on top of their game.
