When it comes to the stars of world football, Antoine Griezmann always comes up in conversation as one of the brightest and most talented players of his generation. The world champion, leader of the French national team and star of Atletico Madrid is famous for his skills on the pitch. However, few people know that in addition to football battles, Griezmann is passionate about the virtual pitches of Summoner’s Rift from the popular game League of Legends. This fact speaks not only of his versatility as a person, but also opens the door to the world of eSports, where Griezmann finds his inspiration and relaxation.
Antoine Griezmann has never hidden his love for video games. His interest in League of Legends, one of the most popular online multiplayer games in the world, has become known to the general public in recent years. Griezmann not only plays it in his spare time, but also actively supports eSports teams, follows tournaments and even shares his gaming moments with followers on social networks. For those unfamiliar with League of Legends (or LoL), it is a MOBA (multiplayer online battle arena) game that requires players to think strategically, work together and react quickly. All of these qualities, by the way, echo what is necessary for a successful career as a professional footballer. It is not surprising that Griezmann, who has a high level of discipline and adaptability, found something familiar in this game.
The story of Antoine’s passion for LoL began, as he himself admitted, with an interest in video games in general. Growing up in an era of rapid development of the gaming industry, Griezmann has always found in games a way to relax after intense training and matches. In interviews and on his social networks, he has said more than once that for him, games are not just entertainment, but also a way to maintain mental stability. League of Legends appeared in Griezmann’s life around the same time he began to win titles in football arenas. For Antoine, the game became not only an opportunity to escape from pressure, but also a way to develop strategic thinking. He shared that team play in LoL helps him better understand the dynamics of interaction in real life, on the football field.
Griezmann is not only a League of Legends player, but also an active spectator of eSports. The French footballer enthusiastically follows tournaments such as the World Championship and the LEC (the European LoL league). He has even stated that he would like to try himself as a professional player or coach one day if his football career had turned out differently. His support for French eSports teams such as Karmine Corp and Team Vitality is especially noticeable. Griezmann often posts about matches, supports teams on Twitter and has even attended eSports events. His involvement in this field inspires young fans, showing that a passion for video games can be useful and productive.
Football at the level where Griezmann plays is accompanied by colossal physical and psychological stress. Daily training, public pressure and the expectations of millions of fans make the life of a professional athlete extremely stressful. League of Legends has become Griezmann’s “refuge” where he can relax and enjoy the game. Interestingly, Antoine often talks about the parallels between football and video games. For example, the importance of communication in LoL echoes the role of interaction in a football team. “If you can’t get your thoughts across to the team, it affects the result,” Griezmann noted in one interview. In addition, the game allows him to train his brain: quick reactions, analytical thinking and strategic planning – all this is transferred to the football field. Thus, League of Legends has become a kind of way for Griezmann to complement his professional skills.