The golf course has been kind of a second home for NBA icon Michael Jordan. From hosting his wedding reception at 6x Masters champion Jack Nicklaus’ golf course to losing millions in wagers, MJ’s love for the game knows no bounds. And that is why he was probably “fleeced for a thousand” pounds while on a trip to England decades ago. English soccer great Gary Lineker shared an intriguing story with the listeners about His Airness in the latest episode of ‘The Rest is Football’ podcast.

The sports broadcaster once had the opportunity to play against MJ and his friend, Samuel L. Jackson, along with a few others at Sunningdale some 20-odd years ago. Being a club member, Lineker decided to host the guests. But he needed another member to host the additional guests, so he invited his friend, Michael King, who was a former pro golfer. However, as Lineker recalled, King loved to wager, and he met his match in Jordan.

When he asked MJ if he would like to bet money on the game, the answer was in the affirmative. Lineker revealed the interaction. “So, how much would you like to play for?” King asked MJ. The Chicago Bulls legend replied, “Whatever makes you uncomfortable.”

Lineker highlighted this as his Michael Jordan moment. But the story wasn’t done yet. Lineker then revealed how Jordan was tricked by King, the next day. Recalling the story, the former soccer icon said he posted the story on Twitter in 2020 and got a call from Michael King. King told Lineker that TIMES wanted to talk about the day at Sunningdale with Jordan and if it was ok with him. But the former pro golfer later divulged to Lineker that he “fleeced him [Jordan] for a few thousand, when they played the next day.

Lineker narrated, “He (King) said, “‘at the end of the game we were having a few drinks and we had these bets. Then they were preparing to leave. I said, Mr. Jordan In this country, when we play for money, we do tend to pay our debt.'” Lineker added, “He said he (Jordan) went to the car and he said his driver brought over £2,000.”

In his tweet from 2020, Lineker also revealed that he lost about £100 or about 130 US dollars to Michael Jordan.

Well, not a smart decision by the billionaire, as his losing wager far exceeded the one he won. But of course, Mike is well aware of the risks. It’s part of how he triggers his competitive spirit.

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Michael Jordan once bet his Ferrari in a shootout

Surely, £100 and even £2000 are pocket change for the only athlete to crack the Forbes 400. Furthermore, King’s version might hold some truth, considering the substantial amount MJ has lost in golf bets. Michael Jordan once famously wagered his Ferrari against Jamal Crawford.

Many sources have even confirmed the story. Crawford initially challenged MJ for $1000 in a 3-point shootout, which Jordan won. Unfazed by it, Crawford increased it to $5000 and won. That might have pushed MJ to propose a car bet. 

While the 21-year-old took the offer and placed his Mercedes on the bet, Jordan had placed his Ferrari and ultimately won the wager. Did you know about this? Let us know in the comments section below.

READ MORE: Jamal Crawford Reveals How Michael Jordan Became a Fan of His Game