For most people, Christmas Day means relaxing with family, enjoying festive food, and taking a well-deserved break. However, for many professional athletes and managers around the world, it’s just another day at the office. From the Premier League to the NBA, the holiday season is often a critical time for training and competition. So, what exactly do these elite sports figures do while others are opening presents?

The answer largely depends on the sport and its schedule. While some may get a precious day off, many are on the training ground, in a hotel, or even on the court, preparing for a crucial game. This day is a true test of professional dedication.

Football (Soccer): The Boxing Day Preparation

In leagues like England’s Premier League, Christmas Day is the final preparation for the famous Boxing Day fixtures on December 26th. Consequently, it is very much a working day for most players and coaching staff.

Morning Training and Strict Diets

Managers typically schedule a morning training session. This allows players to spend the afternoon and early evening with their families. However, the work doesn’t stop there. Players must follow strict dietary plans, meaning no overindulgence in festive treats or alcohol. For example, they need to maintain peak physical condition for the upcoming match.

If a team has an away game on Boxing Day, the schedule becomes even tighter. Many squads travel on Christmas evening, checking into a hotel to prepare for the match. This further limits valuable family time. Although it’s a professional obligation, some players, like former Arsenal striker Ian Wright, have found a unique pleasure in it, enjoying the quiet commute to the training ground on an otherwise busy day.

US Sports: A Christmas Day Showcase

The NBA’s Holiday Tradition

The NBA has a long-standing tradition of scheduling high-profile games on Christmas Day. For players and coaches, being selected to play on this day is often seen as an honor, a sign that their team is a major draw. Therefore, their day is a whirlwind of activity.

Players work hard to balance professional duties with personal traditions. For instance, stars like Draymond Green often make sure their children can open gifts in the morning before they head to the arena for the game. Winning a Christmas Day game is a unique and satisfying experience for the whole team.

The NFL Joins the Festive Fixtures

The NFL has also embraced Christmas Day games. What was once a rare occurrence is now a regular feature. For 2025, three NFL games are scheduled, meaning hundreds of players and staff will be fully focused on competition. This commitment shows the immense dedication required at the top level of the sport.

Beyond these major leagues, an athlete’s Christmas can vary:

• Cricketers might be in the middle of a major tour or series.
• Track and field athletes could be training for an upcoming indoor season.
• Some athletes also use the day for community service and charity events.

A Day of Dedication, Not Rest

Ultimately, for a large number of professional athletes, Christmas Day is defined by professional commitment rather than festive relaxation. It is a day of training, travel, and high-stakes competition. While they find ways to celebrate with their loved ones, their primary focus remains on performance. Their dedication ensures that fans across the globe, from London to Los Angeles and Nairobi, have thrilling sporting action to enjoy during the holiday season.