While most of the world nestled around a classic Christmas turkey this year, some of sport’s biggest names took a very different approach to the festive feast. From sushi plates to unexpected traditions, these stars skipped the usual Christmas dinner — and fans are fascinated by what they chose to do instead.
🥢 Sir Andy Murray — Sushi First, Turkey Later
Sir Andy Murray — the British tennis legend now enjoying life after retirement — quietly bypassed the traditional turkey dinner this Christmas in favour of something far more personal and beloved: sushi. Murray revealed that his favourite festive ritual is eating sushi earlier in the day on Christmas Eve, long before the main family meal. It’s become a quirky holiday tradition as he balances family time with his own comfort-food preference amid the festivities with his children and wife. HELLO!
Away from the courts, Murray has embraced fatherhood and his festive routine reflects that shift — making Christmas about family bonds and joyful moments rather than strict tradition. He still enjoys the big Christmas dinner with his loved ones, but the early “rogue” sushi has become his signature way to kick off the holidays. HELLO!
🏎️ Max Verstappen — Quiet Christmas at Home
Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen was also spotted skipping a big feast and public holiday gala this season. Instead of a grand dinner with glitz and glam, Verstappen kept it intimate and low-key with close family at home, choosing relaxed games and storytelling instead of a formal sit-down meal. Facebook
⚽ Gary Neville — Low-Key Festive Routine
Former England defender Gary Neville also steered clear of a traditional Christmas dinner spectacle this year. Known for his candid, humorous takes on life, Neville shared how his family’s meal routine is less about pomp and more about comfort, joking about the unusual meal times and small holiday moments that make his celebrations memorable. The Sun
🎯 Luke Littler — Cozy Celebration Over Feast
Darts sensation Luke Littler chose a home-based Christmas celebration rather than going out for a big turkey dinner or public event. Instead, Littler’s festive day centered on board games, family time and laughter at home, putting relaxation first after another intense year of competition. The Sun
⚽ Cristiano Ronaldo — Pajamas and Family Fun
Although Ronaldo was spotted taking part in Christmas festivities, he moved away from a traditional turkey dinner to share heart-warming moments wearing matching festive pajamas with his partner and children, emphasizing laughter and togetherness over formal dining. The Sun
⚽ Erling Haaland — Holiday Abroad
Erling Haaland’s Christmas festivities looked more like a mini-vacation than a classic holiday feast. The Manchester City star returned to Norway to spend the break with his girlfriend and family, adding beachside walks and holiday relaxation to his Christmas Day in place of a big festive meal. The Sun
🎅 Why These Stars Skipped the Turkey
For many elite athletes, the holiday season isn’t just about food — it’s a chance to recharge, reflect and reconnect with loved ones. Rather than sticking to tradition, these stars mixed it up:
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Personal preference (Murray’s sushi)
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Family focus (Verstappen, Littler)
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Relaxation & downtime (Haaland, Ronaldo)
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Humorous routine (Neville)
Their festive choices show that for high-profile sports figures, Christmas can mean something deeply personal and delightfully unconventional. Whether it’s sushi instead of turkey, pajamas by the tree, or beachside moments, these celebrations remind fans that even sporting legends appreciate the holiday season in their own unique ways. 🎁✨
