Stardom is indeed coveted by many. It, however, usually does not materialize without hard work and sacrifice. Even for someone like Michael Jordan, this is no different. As the spotlight shined on MJ, he had to part with something he held dear – his freedom. Despite doubling his income due to fame, the Bulls icon lost his haven. In the New York Times bestseller book, ‘Playing for Keeps: Michael Jordan and the World He Made,’ David Halberstam pens the whole story.

The author describes Jordan’s life and career in the book, which was released on December 12, 2023. Halberstam states that MJ’s favorite destination was France, and he would find solace in Paris away from the dazzling lights of fame. While sitting in a cafe, Jordan was able to gain the simple joys of anonymity in life.

Michael Jordan lost Paris, and the double-edged sword of fame

As mentioned in the book, the turning point came courtesy of the Olympics, after which Jordan became an international name. Jordan won two Olympic gold medals, one in 1984 in Los Angeles and then again in 1992 in Barcelona, Spain. As a global star, he also had to travel to numerous countries for his games. Soon, his sweet escape slipped from his hands. While he was happy with his soaring income and global recognition, the Bulls legend lost his favorite space.

In the book, Halberstam explains, “There had been a time when Michael Jordan had regarded France as a kind of sanctuary, a place where he could vacation and escape the burden of his fame.” He added, “His appearance on the Olympic Dream Team five years earlier and his subsequent mounting international fame had ended that. His gross income had more than doubled, but he had lost Paris”

But what was about Paris that he loved so much?

A rare chance to be away from the spotlight

Away from the relentless scrutiny of media and fans, Jordan cherished the freedom to enjoy a quiet moment without the constant barrage of attention. For a man whose every move was scrutinized on and off the court, these moments of anonymity became precious. 

In an interview, he agreed that he liked visiting Paris where people didn’t recognize him. He said, “I could sit down and have dinner or have lunch or whatever, and people never really paid attention. I loved to do that.” He stated that he would just sit in a cafe the whole day and watch people. Did you know about this? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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