Sport in the 1990s was dominated by figures who became larger-than-life heroes. These athletes were adored, and it was widely believed that they could do no wrong. However, beyond their athletic achievements, they were human, with personal lives that were not perfect. Here are 12 such sports stars whose off-field actions would dismay fans now:

This post may contain affiliate links meaning I get commissions for purchases made in this post. Read my disclosure policy here.

Michael Jordan – Gambling Allegations

While Michael Jordan enthralled the world with his mastery of the basketball court, his off-court penchant for gambling often surfaced in news headlines. Today, gambling addiction is more openly discussed and understood as a significant mental health issue. Jordan’s habits could spotlight him and prompt him to seek professional help.

Diego Maradona – Substance Abuse

Diego Maradona was a God to football fans. However, he also faced a very public battle with substance abuse. His struggles, often highlighted during the 1990s, might now be met with more scrutiny. At that time, they were tabloid headlines, and the prevailing atmosphere in that era was to disregard the shenanigans off-field as long as Maradona performed on the field.

Tonya Harding – The Scandal

Tonya Harding’s involvement in the attack on Nancy Kerrigan shocked the sports world and marred her career. Today, the whole attack would be viewed with no sympathy for Tonya. At that time, this was seen as an act of jealousy.

Mike Tyson – Legal Issues

Mike Tyson, once feared in the boxing ring, faced a significant legal battle when he was convicted of rape in 1992. He has since made a comeback via movies and TV shows. Today, in the aftermath of the #MeToo movement and a growing societal focus on sexual assault and consent, Tyson’s conviction would likely lead to an irreversible fallout. His career, endorsements, and public persona would suffer extensively as modern audiences and sponsors increasingly distance themselves from athletes involved in criminal activities.

O.J. Simpson – The Trial of the Century

O.J. Simpson, once a celebrated NFL running back, was embroiled in what was dubbed the “trial of the century” for the murder of his ex-wife and her friend. He was acquitted, and there were a lot of people who believed Simpson was innocent. Today, though he might have been acquitted in the criminal court, the public scrutiny and judgment would be even more relentless.

Andre Agassi – Substance Misuse

Tennis star Andre Agassi’s admission of using crystal meth during his career surprised many fans and critics alike. If he were a current player, such news would likely lead to a more severe backlash and calls for stricter drug testing within the sport. The current environment, which is less forgiving of drug use on the court, would also foster discussions on the pressures that lead athletes to substance abuse.

John Daly – Multiple Controversies

John Daly, known for his powerful golf swings and equally tumultuous personal life, frequently made headlines for his struggles with alcohol, gambling, and marital issues. Today, Daly’s off-course behaviors would likely be scrutinized harshly.

Dennis Rodman – Off-Court Antics

Dennis Rodman, famed for his rebounding skills and flamboyant personality, often found himself at the center of media attention for his antics and controversial statements. Rodman got a glimpse of today’s unforgiving world when he was all but canceled after his friendship with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un made headlines. There would likely be no place for him in today’s politically charged environment.

Brett Favre – Retirement Flip-Flops

Brett Favre’s multiple retirements and subsequent returns to the NFL were a media spectacle in the late ’90s and early 2000s. Today, such behavior might be viewed as indecisive and disruptive, potentially attracting criticism for overshadowing teammates and affecting team morale.

Barry Bonds – Steroid Allegations

Barry Bonds, one of baseball’s greatest hitters, saw his achievements overshadowed by allegations of steroid use. Today, with stricter doping regulations and a zero-tolerance policy towards performance-enhancing drugs, Bonds’ legacy would be under even greater scrutiny. The conversation around Bonds would likely include debates on the integrity of sports, athlete health, and the legitimacy of records set under the influence of banned substances.

Pete Rose – Gambling on Baseball

Pete Rose’s permanent ban from baseball for betting on games he was involved in was a major sports scandal. Today, with gambling becoming more mainstream and even more controversial within sports, Rose’s actions would likely invoke even less sympathy, with a strong emphasis on maintaining the integrity of the game.

Lance Armstrong – Doping

Lance Armstrong’s fall from grace due to doping shook the world of cycling and sports at large. Today, such a scandal would resonate deeply, given the current emphasis on clean sports and fair play. Armstrong’s case would serve as a cautionary tale, prompting even stricter anti-doping measures and potentially more severe penalties for those involved in similar actions.