People love to say we get paid a lot of money to play a game, but it stopped being a game when you start getting paid

People love to say we get paid a lot of money to play a game, but it stopped being a game when you start getting paid

Curt Schilling, a former Major League Baseball pitcher, is no stranger to controversy. Throughout his career, he was known for his outspoken opinions and willingness to speak his mind, even if it meant facing backlash from fans and the media. One of the most famous quotes attributed to Schilling is, "People love to say we get paid a lot of money to play a game, but it stopped being a game when you start getting paid."

This quote speaks to the idea that professional athletes are often criticized for making large salaries to play a sport that many people view as a game. However, Schilling's point is that once money becomes involved, the stakes are raised and the pressure to perform at a high level increases significantly. In other words, what may have started as a fun and enjoyable activity can quickly turn into a high-stakes, high-pressure job.

Schilling's career in baseball was marked by both success and controversy. He was a six-time All-Star and won three World Series championships with the Arizona Diamondbacks and Boston Red Sox. However, he also faced criticism for his outspoken political views and controversial statements, particularly on social media.

In recent years, Schilling has become more well-known for his off-field controversies than his on-field accomplishments. He has been fired from his job as a baseball analyst for ESPN and has faced backlash for his comments on topics such as transgender rights and political issues.

Despite the controversies surrounding him, Schilling's quote about the intersection of money and sports remains relevant. Professional athletes are often held to high standards and face intense scrutiny from fans, the media, and their teams. The pressure to perform at a high level and live up to the expectations that come with a large salary can take a toll on even the most talented and successful athletes.