Despite the numerous accolades, and there are plenty, the thing people associate with Shaquille O’Neal first is philanthropy. Even though he was a remarkable basketball player and a business mogul, his generosity is the true stuff of legend. Whether it be affordable sneakers or helping anyone in need, the Los Angeles Lakers legend is all about giving back. However, there is one area in particular where the 7-footer himself thinks he excels. That same skill gave way to a beautiful moment from the 4x NBA champion.

As he gets ready for the third iteration of his fundraising gala with his own foundation, Shaq is out promoting the event.

Shaquille O’Neal and his generosity

Speaking to Adrian Hernandez, the $400 million rich O’Neal revealed a beautiful story upon prodding. The host asked the big man to reveal a moment that “really hits you hard emotionally.” The 51-year-old, ever the sport, was his candid self as he talked about the incident.

“So, I take pride in being the biggest tipper in the world. So, I allow people to tell me what they want. This time one…She said 500. I gave her five thousand and she went crying.” The crying, unfortunately, caused Diesel to fear for himself. “I’m like, ‘Lady, some people gonna take a picture of you crying. They’re gonna think I was rude, stop.'”

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But, the 15x All-Star also made a point to mention how some people take advantage of that generosity. “She was very polite because some people when you tell them – Oh, I want twenty thousand…She was scared to put the 500…But it wasn’t about the money. She was like, ‘Hey, I didn’t know how I was gonna pay my rent.’ So, as long as I could help her do that.” 

While Shaq chose to remain civil in the exchange, the incident could have turned out a lot differently.

The Angry Side of Superman

As physically imposing as Shaquille O’Neal is, the Superman moniker is quite appropriate for the legend. However, that avatar almost came out during this exchange, like it almost did in Tomorrowland. While talking about the incident, Shaquille revealed what compelled him to make the tip.

“It takes a lot to wait on tables and I was looking at other tables and people were being disrespectful and rude. I kind of wanted to get up and like punch to like, cause a brawl in the restaurant. But I was like…These guys are being buttheads, let me go and make her day.” 

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The incident stands as yet another reminder of the gem that O’Neal is to society. While athletes tend to be all about giving back, no one does it quite like Shaq. Cheers to Shaquille O’Neal – a champion on the court, sure. But, more importantly, a Champion at heart.