The Funniest Professional Athletes
The funniest professional athletes are the stars of the NFL, NBA, MLB and NHL who don't just amaze fans with their athletic skills but also keep their fans and teammates laughing with their jokes, antics and other assorted hilarity. Should these pro athletes ever need a second job or a new career once their football, baseball, basketball or hockey days end, comedy or entertainment would be a great choice.
For the most part, fans see what the athletes do on the field as they watch games in person or on television but on rare occasions we get a glimpse into how these beloved sports stars act in real life. Some athletes make that easy with their constant tweeting, like New England Patriots wide out Chad Ochocinco, the NHL's best fourth-liner Paul Bissonnette and retired NBA star Shaquille O'Neal. These guys aren't just some of the most followed and most active athletes on Twitter but also easily the funniest athletes on Twitter.
Going beyond social media, other athletes let fans into their lighter side with special appearances and other online fan interactions. Baller Steve Nash, mullet-lover Jared Allen and all-star pitcher C.J. Wilson are all frequent stars of their own YouTube videos where they do all kinds of wacky things. MLB player Brian Wilson, whose beard alone could get a laugh, has also starred in hilarious videos, in between other antics like showing up to the ESPY Awards in a spandex tuxedo and filming funny commercials.
Others have more of a subtle sense of humor that comes out in small doses during media appearances and locker room interviews. There is however a trend for impersonations, just as Dwight Howard, who can do a mean impersonation of coach Stan Van Gundy, or Pittsburgh Steeler Crezdon Butler who can do a hilarious impersonation of coach Mike Tomlin.
However these athletes are funny, they show us a softer, more human side of our favorite sports stars. Since we can't get all of our favorites athletes to share their lives with reality shows, these brief looks into their lives, whether it's scripted comedy or just them being their funny selves, will have to do.- 1Age: 51
- Birthplace: Newark, New Jersey, USA
Shaquille O'Neal, affectionately known as "Shaq," is a larger-than-life basketball player who transcended the sport with his unmatched athleticism and an imposing figure. Undoubtedly one of the most dominant centers in NBA history, his affable personality and humorous off-the-court antics made him a fan favorite. From rapping to acting, Shaq's diverse talents and propensity for cracking jokes on television appearances gave him a unique allure, both during his playing career and now as an insightful yet hilarious TV analyst.
- 2Age: 60
- Birthplace: Leeds, Alabama, USA
The "Round Mound of Rebound," Charles Barkley, is a basketball legend whose wit and infectious laughter were as distinct as his prowess on the court. As a tenacious power forward, his fearless and aggressive playing style solidified his place among basketball's greats. Beyond his on-court contributions, Barkley's uproarious humor and candid commentary on important issues have earned him a respected and beloved role as a sports analyst.
- 3Dec. at 74 (1942-2016)
- Birthplace: Louisville, Kentucky, USA
Muhammad Ali's poetic trash talk and quick wit arguably made him the most entertaining boxer to ever step into the ring. His lightning-fast footwork and powerful punches earned him the nickname "The Greatest" and forever changed the sport of boxing. Off the canvas, Ali's ability to captivate audiences with his charisma and humor was unparalleled, leaving us with an unforgettable legacy as both a sports icon and a master of wit.
- 4Age: 98
- Birthplace: MO
Yogi Berra was not only a legendary baseball player but also a beloved personality known for his malapropisms and humorous quotes dubbed "Yogi-isms." As a catcher for the New York Yankees, his unmatched baseball IQ and natural leadership guided the team to numerous championships. It was Berra's profound yet humorous observations on life, such as "It ain't over 'til it's over," that cemented his status as a beloved and endearing figure in sports history.
- 5Age: 34
- Birthplace: Amherst, New York
Rob "Gronk" Gronkowski is a football force to be reckoned with, as his blend of size and athleticism revolutionized the tight end position. As a key offensive weapon for the New England Patriots, Grondkowski's dominating impact on the field was just as important as his lively personality off it. The lovable "Party Animal" endeared himself to fans with his playful humor and boisterous antics, solidifying his status as an NFL fan favorite.
- 6Age: 41
- Birthplace: Malmö, Sweden
Zlatan Ibrahimović's blend of supreme confidence, unmatched skills, and his propensity for memorable one-liners have made him one of soccer's most entertaining stars. With a striking prowess that has kept fans on the edge of their seats, his brash personality and audacious playing style have left an indelible mark on the sport. Known for self-aggrandizing comments like "I am Zlatan," the Swedish striker's humor and bravado have made him a polarizing yet endlessly entertaining figure.
