As elite footballers compete on the World Cup stage, they employ a range of unusual health habits—some grounded in science, others steeped in tradition or personal routine. From Cristiano Ronaldo’s multiple daily naps to Erling Haaland’s raw milk mornings, these players show that high performance can come with an unconventional twist.
- Ronaldo prioritizes multiple short naps for recovery.
- Haaland drinks raw milk despite infection risks.
- Messi revamped his diet, cutting processed foods.
What happened
Top footballers preparing for and competing in the World Cup often embrace unique health habits to gain an edge. Norway’s Erling Haaland starts his day with unpasteurised raw milk, calling it a 'superfood' despite health risks. Cristiano Ronaldo, at 41, replenishes his energy and sharpness through five power naps daily. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi transformed his diet, replacing processed foods with natural ingredients like olive oil, whole grains, and fresh produce.
These routines highlight a blend of modern sports science and individual preferences. Other players, like Arsenal's Declan Rice, focus on carbohydrate-rich meals like pancakes with maple syrup before matches for quick energy, while Poland’s Robert Lewandowski eats dessert first to aid energy processing. Such habits showcase the varied approaches players use to prepare their bodies.
Why it feels good
Many of these health strategies are rooted in science that supports muscle repair, energy availability, and recovery. For example, consuming sufficient protein and calories, as Haaland does, promotes muscle protein synthesis essential for sprinting performance. Ronaldo’s segmented sleep pattern aligns with natural human tendencies toward multiple sleep phases, helping maintain alertness and recovery without relying solely on one long sleep session.
Messi’s dietary overhaul addresses digestive health and overall nutrition, contributing to sustained career longevity. Simple carbohydrates, like those favored by Rice and Lewandowski, offer quick energy by rapidly raising blood glucose prior to high-intensity play. These practices can enhance players' performance and wellbeing when managed carefully.
What to enjoy or watch next
Fans and athletes alike can explore adapting some of these habits in ways that suit their own lifestyles. For instance, short daytime naps have growing support from sleep experts for improved alertness and recovery. Nutritionists recommend balanced meals with ample whole foods, inspired by Messi’s approach, to maintain energy levels and digestive health.
While raw milk carries infection risks and may not be advisable for most, the principle behind it—seeking nutrient-dense foods for muscle support—can be pursued safely through pasteurised dairy or other protein-rich choices. Watching the World Cup unfold offers a unique chance to see how top players’ rituals translate into their on-field brilliance.