Why do footballers cut holes in their socks? Sentiment or science?

Have you ever wondered why some international footballers who are paid in millions, opt to wear socks which have noticeable holes in them? Are the reasons based on superstitions or do they have a scientific basis behind them? Turns out, the reason is pretty simple and basic.

Most players cut these holes in their socks in order to relieve pressure from their calf muscles due to their tight fits. Players who have well developed calves cut through the garment in order to help for better blood circulation in their legs so as to avoid cramps during or after a game or a particularly tough training session.

In recent times, Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham’s socks have been in the news for this particular reason but the trend had started even before that through a certain Welsh international who had a flair for golf during his time at the Bernabeu.

Gareth Bale, who won 5 Champions League with the Los Blancos, used to cut holes over his calves in order to overcome recurring muscle injuries in his legs back in 2016. “He is ready to play and that’s the most important thing. The holes in his socks? That’s something of his,” his then coach Zinedine Zidane had opined.

“Well, the logic behind players cutting their socks is that the ones with large calf muscles find it uncomfortable because the stockings we wear are new and they prove to be tight and restrictive which may also lead to cramps during the game. That is why players cut them from behind so there is effective circulation of blood flow and they feel comfortable,” Jamshedpur FC defender Pratik Chaudhari told The Indian Express.

“Some players also cut their stockings just above the ankle. I do it myself. I prefer to wear anti-slip socks which help my feet stay firm inside the