Former baseball star Alex Rodriguez recently sat down for an interview on the Cigar Aficionado YouTube channel, where he delved into his love for cigars and shared a remarkable anecdote involving none other than basketball legend Michael Jordan. Rodriguez, known affectionately as A-Rod, revealed how a golfing experience with Jordan led to a profound admiration for both Jordan’s cigar-selling expertise and his massive success in the sneaker industry. The former New York Yankees slugger was particularly impressed by the staggering $3 billion in sneaker sales generated by Jordan’s brand.
Advertisement
During the interview, A-Rod couldn’t help but express his astonishment at Jordan’s achievements as both a basketball icon and a savvy entrepreneur. It wasn’t just sneakers that caught A-Rod’s attention; it was also Jordan’s remarkable influence in the world of cigars.
The Pivotal Golfing Experience with Michael Jordan
As A-Rod recounted, his pivotal moment came during a game of golf with the legendary Michael Jordan. It was during this encounter that Rodriguez was introduced to the exquisite Montecristo Double Corona cigar, an experience that would forever alter his perception of cigars. The setting was serene, the atmosphere relaxed, and the company of Jordan made the occasion all the more memorable.
In the midst of their friendly game, A-Rod found himself captivated by the allure of cigars. With each puff, he became more enamored, ultimately falling head over heels in love with the rich flavors and aromas. It was a transformative moment, one that would forever change his relationship with cigars.
“I made a pivot from liking cigars to loving them when I was playing golf on Michael Jordan. So not only does Michael sell sneakers, I saw where he’s doing three billion dollars in top sales, but he’s a good ambassador for cigars… Boy, I just fell in love with it.”
A-Rod couldn’t help but emphasize Jordan’s influence as a cigars ambassador. Beyond his extraordinary success in the sneaker industry, Jordan had become an exemplary figure in the world of cigars, imparting his expertise and love for the art to those fortunate enough to experience it. The $3 billion in sneaker sales was not just a testament to Jordan’s business acumen but also a reflection of his role as an ambassador for cigars.
Jordan’s Pre-Game Ritual: Smoking a Cigar Before Every Home Game
In addition to his prowess as a golfer and entrepreneur, Michael Jordan had a unique pre-game ritual that further solidified his connection with cigars. During an interview with Cigar Aficionado magazine, Jordan made a surprising revelation: before every Bulls home game, he would indulge in a cigar.
It was a ritual that allowed him to relax and prepare for the intense competition that awaited him on the basketball court.
This revelation challenged the common perception that athletes abstain from smoking, let alone indulging in a cigar before a game. It provided a fascinating glimpse into Jordan’s mindset and his ability to find relaxation and focus in an unconventional way.
For A-Rod and fellow cigar enthusiasts, this disclosure added another layer to their admiration for Jordan, reinforcing the bond that cigars create among aficionados.
