From slam dunks to red carpets, today’s star athletes aren’t just winning games; they’re also winning fame. In society today, sports stars and celebrities have almost become interchangeable. Athletes are not only admired for their records and skills, but also for their style, social media, and influence. From Subway ads to endorsement deals, athletes have become public figures whose fame has stretched beyond the field. As their influence grows, this raises the question: are they athletes first or celebrities who happen to play sports? To understand how sports and popularity have become so intertwined, let’s take a look at a few athletes who’ve mastered both games.

Firstly, Serena Williams has mastered talent in both tennis and life under the spotlight. With her renowned makeup brand, WYN Beauty, Serena has made a strong statement about inclusivity and self-confidence. Her brand features a wide range of shades designed to match all skin tones to show that beauty should be accessible to everyone. By creating beauty products that celebrate diversity, Williams continues to inspire people both on and off the court, proving that her influence goes far beyond tennis.

Another extremely influential celebrity athlete is none other than the great Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. While most people born in the 2000s know “The Rock” as an actor and comedian, before his smashing success on screen, he was a renowned wrestler. His transition from the WWE ring to Hollywood fame demonstrates that athletic discipline and charisma can become a massive mainstream success.

Yet, not every athlete’s rise to fame has an inspirational outcome; for example, O.J. Simpson is a prime example of how stardom can take a dark turn. Once known as a beloved public figure and ruler of the football field, his reputation was destroyed after being accused of murdering his ex-wife and her friend. Though he was found not guilty, his name will forever be tied to one of the most infamous and controversial trials ever. Simpson’s story shows how admiration can easily turn into infamy.

From Serena Williams redefining beauty standards while chasing down balls on the tennis court, to Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson wrestling his way through Hollywood, it’s obvious that athletes hold extreme power far beyond their sports. Yet, O.J. Simpson’s story reveals that fame is capable of destroying a person’s reputation, athlete or not. Overall, the world’s hyperfixation on celebrity-athletes reminds us that success comes with both opportunity and risk, proving that the biggest game isn’t played on the field at all.