Why elite athletes are drawn to video games

Video games have become a significant part of the lives of elite athletes, offering both a way to decompress and a competitive outlet off the field or court. While the pastime provides camaraderie and a break from the stresses of professional sports, it also carries risks when gaming becomes excessive, potentially impacting performance and personal lives.

The appeal of gaming to athletes

Athletes like LeBron James, who ranks among the top 100 Madden NFL players, and others such as Channing Frye and Terrence Ross highlight gaming’s role in their lives. It provides a means to unwind and connect with teammates or friends in a virtual environment. Former snooker world champion Neil Robertson shared that gaming once became a central part of his life, competing in top guilds in World of Warcraft.

For many, gaming satisfies their natural competitive instincts. Ross and Frye explain that their drive to be the best extends to gaming, where rankings and achievements mimic the thrill of professional sports. Video games also serve as a creative outlet for younger athletes who often find themselves far from home and family.

The risks of excessive gaming

Despite the enjoyment, gaming can cross the line into problematic behavior. Robertson admits his gaming habits once impacted his snooker results, recalling times when his gaming addiction left him prioritizing virtual success over real-life competitions. Frye similarly noted skipping extended basketball practice sessions to make time for gaming, while Ross shared how gaming sometimes caused tension at home.

The World Health Organization officially recognized “gaming disorder” in 2019, underscoring how excessive gaming can disrupt lives. Cam Adair, founder of Game Quitters, recalls working with an NFL manager concerned about a player’s excessive gaming. The player’s performance declined, leading to injuries and missed opportunities, including a potential multi-million-dollar contract.

Why athletes are vulnerable

Athletes’ intense schedules, frequent travel, and periods of isolation make them particularly susceptible to gaming addiction. Many turn to video games to fill downtime, stay out of trouble, or connect with others in different time zones. This habit is exacerbated by the competitiveness that drives them in their professional lives, which can translate into an obsessive need to excel in gaming.

Finding balance

Experts like Adair stress the importance of educating athletes on the effects of excessive gaming, likening it to other behavioral challenges athletes face. Leagues and teams are beginning to recognize gaming’s impact on brain health, motivation, and overall performance.

For athletes, video games can provide a healthy escape, build community, and offer a competitive outlet. However, moderation and self-awareness are key to ensuring that gaming complements, rather than hinders, their personal and professional lives. As Frye aptly puts it, “You gotta live in the real world for it to be a game.”