Christmas — a time for turkey, family, and festive feasts. But for some of the world’s most dedicated athletes, the holiday plate doesn’t always look like it does for the rest of us. Sir Andy Murray surprised fans this year by revealing he won’t be sitting down to a traditional Christmas dinner, and he’s not alone — several big names in sport are skipping the holiday roast too. What they’re doing instead is as fascinating as it is unexpected.
Here’s a closer look at Murray and five other sports stars who’re trading turkey for traditions of their own:
🥊 1. Sir Andy Murray — Early Morning Training Over Turkey Dinner
Instead of stuffing his plate, Sir Andy Murray will be stuffing his training bag. The tennis legend shared that this year, he’s dedicating Christmas morning to a vigorous workout — both physical and mental. Rather than focusing on festive indulgence, Andy sees this time as self-care and preparation for the fierce season ahead. It’s less gravy, more grit.
🏉 2. Ellia Green — Boxing Up His Christmas Boxing Gloves
Former rugby star Ellia Green announced he’s celebrating Christmas with a mini boxing camp. With his family joining him for light cardio and skill drills before a healthy lunch, the holiday for Green is about sharing what he loves most while staying in peak shape for the new year.
⚽ 3. Marcus Rashford — Charity Match Instead of Christmas Dinner
Footballer Marcus Rashford is swapping Christmas pudding for purpose. Instead of a formal dinner, he’s hosting a charity football match to raise meals and toys for underprivileged kids. No roast, no regret — just goals and goodwill.
🏀 4. Sue Bird — Sunset Hoops Over Holiday Ham
NBA legend Sue Bird has turned her Christmas holiday into a beach day ritual. She’s skipping the heavy holiday meal and hitting the courts at sunset with friends and family, followed by a lighter, fitness-friendly feast. For Bird, the best part of Christmas is motion, not mastication.
🏎️ 5. Lewis Hamilton — Vegan Feast and Meditation Morning
Seven-time Formula 1 champ Lewis Hamilton is known for his plant-based lifestyle. This year, he’s celebrating with a sunrise meditation session, yoga, and a vegan gourmet feast shared with loved ones. No turkey, but plenty of mindful joy.
🏃♂️ 6. Mo Farah — Long Run and Recovery Session
Legendary long-distance runner Mo Farah is planning a Christmas long run with his training group at dawn, followed by a stretching and recovery session. His holiday meal will be high-protein and nutritious — fueled by respect for his body and sport.
🎉 Why It Matters
These athletes are proving that the holiday season isn’t one-size-fits-all. For elite competitors, Christmas can be a time of self-care, discipline, generosity, and even celebration in motion. Instead of falling into tradition, they’re creating holiday habits that reflect who they are, what they value, and what fuels their success.
And for fans? It’s both surprising and inspiring to see champions find joy — not just in tradition — but in purpose, passion, and performance.
