Very few names in the NBA world shine as bright as that of Michael Jordan. The ‘Jumpman’ redefined the NBA with unparalleled athleticism, unmatched competitive spirit, and a dominant legacy that is marked into basketball history. His six NBA championships have solidified his name as one of the greatest athletes of all time. However, even the legends are not immune to the challenges that come with age.

After the release of “The Last Dance” documentary in 2020, many of his fans were concerned upon seeing the yellowish condition of the legend’s eyes and many have even started speculating what could have been the problem. Most recently, the speculation got more air after Jordan appeared in a Champions League between AS Monaco and Barcelona on September 19. The 61-year-old basketball legend’s sclera, the part of the eyes that are meant to be white, appeared glassy, orange-colored, leaving fans worried. But what can be the real cause?

According to a documentary by Robert Pena in 2020, it was suggested that the Hall of Famer could be suffering from conjunctival pigmented lesion, which was a condition that was similar to melanosis. Melanosis is a condition that is characterized by the excessive production of a pigment named melanin that changes the colors of the eyes, skin, and hair. This condition was quite frequent with individuals who have darker skin.

‘His Airness’ was 57 years old at the time this condition was discovered. But to the relief of the fans, Pena had also stated that the condition was not a serious disease. Bhavin Shah, an optometrist based in London, also had the same opinion. In an exclusive interview with Daily Mail, Shah said, “I can’t tell you for sure unless I examine him, but the most common reason is a natural pigmentation on the conjunctiva, the front surface of the eye, [which] can give a yellow appearance.”

Jordan may have complexion-associated melanosis (CAM), also called ethnic melanosis. CAM typically affects the edge of the cornea (the clear part of the eye). It tends to grow as a person ages and affects both eyes equally, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Notably, the legend himself has never spoken about this. That has increased speculation all the more. And Despite all the explanations from the doctors, one concern is also brewing among the fans.

Doctor Val Phua, an ophthalmologist at Eagle Eye Centre Singapore, had given her opinion on the worsening condition of the Chicago Bulls star. But what she said was a bit concerning. “Yellow eyes should not be ignored because they are a sign of something more going on,” Dr. Phua had said to VICE in 2020 after the release of Jordan’s ‘The Last Dance documentary’ on Netflix. As things stand, yellowing eyes could indicate jaundice, a result of damage to the liver.

The liver plays a crucial role in eliminating bilirubin from the body, a yellowish substance produced as part of normal digestion. As bilirubin accumulates in the bloodstream, causing a yellowing of the skin and eyes. Among several causes, one triggering the condition is alcohol misuse.

Regarding alcohol use, Jordan has remained tight-lipped, except once revealing a recurring dream he had earlier in his career. In that, he was “a bad alcoholic and I can’t stop drinking and embarrassing myself… I wake up from that dream in a sweat.” But he had opened up about a habit that Jordan picked up after his retirement.

The Chicago icon also has a passion for smoking cigars. The All-Star had said in 2005, “I am releasing myself from the persona he had been projecting for so long. These are my favorite activities. My passions are what enable me to move from point A to point B. The sense of relaxation it brings me.” However, he was quick to add that he doesn’t endorse his smoking habits and doesn’t want to promote them to the children. However, did you know there was another health concern about Jordan that was raised during the release of his documentary?

A sedentary lifestyle might be taking a toll on Michael Jordan’s health

His Airness’ NBA career has been well-documented, but his post-retirement life has also garnered serious attention. It was revealed in 2020 that the Bulls legend had reportedly gained a significant amount of weight in a year, that is 40 lbs, another concern among his friends and family, as reported by RadarOnline.com.

One of the reasons that was associated with Jordan’s weight gain was his lavish lifestyle. During his NBA days, he worked out and maintained his body regularly so that he could be in a position to face his opponents. However, after his retirement, it seemed like he didn’t bother about his body.

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“He’s gained weight and he’s got a noticeable paunch. Some of that muscle has turned to fat because he’s not doing strenuous training anymore. He still works out here and there – not like before, but he’s not bothered. He’s happy and enjoying himself. He eats what he wants,” said one insider (as per Marca.com). The insider had further added, “He’ll eat seven-course meals and still have room for dessert!” However, doctors have rung the alarm.

His 6-foot-6 frame has been built over years of intense training. But medics caution that his rapid weight gain, particularly belly fat, puts him at a heightened risk of diabetes. “If I were him, I would make serious changes to the way I was eating before it’s too late!” a doctor had said.

Another reason that can be associated with his sudden weight is his personal problems and the effect of age. As the basketball world holds its collective breath, one thing remains clear: Jordan’s impact on the sport and global culture is indelible, regardless of the challenges he may now face.