Athletes often attribute their success to not just skill and training but also to pre-game rituals and superstitions. These habits, rooted in routine or belief, help athletes mentally prepare and stay confident before stepping into the spotlight. Here are two fascinating examples of locker room rituals from champions.
1. Michael Jordan – Lucky Shorts
Michael Jordan, one of basketball’s greatest players, had a superstition that became legendary. Before every game, Jordan wore his University of North Carolina practice shorts underneath his Chicago Bulls uniform. He believed the shorts brought him luck and connected him to his roots. This ritual was so important to Jordan that he began wearing longer NBA shorts to cover them up, inadvertently starting a fashion trend in basketball. His lucky shorts exemplify how a simple item can provide psychological comfort and a sense of continuity.
2. Serena Williams – Order and Consistency
Tennis icon Serena Williams is known for her pre-match rituals that involve meticulous order and consistency. Before every game, she brings her shower sandals to the court and ties her shoelaces in a specific way. She also bounces the ball exactly five times before her first serve and twice before her second serve. These routines give her a sense of control and focus, helping her channel her nerves into high performance. Serena’s rituals demonstrate how even small, repetitive actions can have a calming effect during high-pressure moments.