What Unusual Rituals Do Athletes Perform Before Competitions?

In the world of sports, athletes often engage in unique and sometimes unusual pre-competition rituals to enhance their focus and performance. For instance, many professional basketball players, like NBA star Stephen Curry, have specific routines that they adhere to before games. These can include everything from the order of their warm-up shots to the way they tie their shoelaces. Some players even have superstitions, such as wearing the same socks or listening to a particular song, believing that these actions can influence their success on the court. This phenomenon isn't limited to basketball; it spans across various sports, showcasing the psychological aspect of athletics where mental readiness is as crucial as physical training. Such rituals can help athletes feel more in control, reduce anxiety, and establish a sense of routine that primes them for peak performance.