Michael Jordan rules the ocean while relaxing with a cigar and a hefty prize aboard his luxury yacht

Michael Jordan doesn’t need a basketball court to keep winning and making headlines. The six-time NBA champion showed once again that his post-playing days are anything but quiet. This time, he did it from the deck of his luxury yacht “Catch 23,” where he kicked back with a cigar after pocketing $400,000 at the renowned White Marlin Open fishing tournament in Ocean City, Maryland.

According to Sportskeeda, Michael Jordan and his crew reeled in a 71-inch, 71-pound white marlin—enough to secure second place in the competition. It’s not his first time participating in the event, but this edition drew extra attention thanks to a video shared by his son Marcus Jordan. In it, the former player is seen enjoying the moment in style, wearing a blue shirt, printed white shorts, a white cap, and dark sunglasses. The image quickly went viral across social media.

Michael Jordan arrives at Harbour Island and Catch 23 weighs in a 71 lb White Marlin! Now in 2nd place! pic.twitter.com/9TDD6tUYNx

— Keith Pickels (@Keith19435616) August 10, 2025

The ocean, his new passion

Michael Jordan has shown that his competitive spirit hasn’t faded with time. While he no longer dominates the hardwood, he’s found new ways to challenge himself—this time, against the sea. His involvement in fishing tournaments isn’t random; it’s a passion he’s nurtured for years, blending adrenaline with serenity. The name of his yacht, “Catch 23,”. Is a direct nod to his iconic number with the Chicago Bulls. And a clever reference to his knack for “catching” victories even outside the sport that made him a legend.

Beyond fishing, Michael Jordan has been open about his relationship with today’s basketball. In a 2010 interview with Michael Wilbon, he admitted he no longer watches games regularly. Why? His competitive nature makes it hard to enjoy the modern style of play, which he says he would approach very differently. That distance from the current NBA hasn’t diminished his influence, but it has redirected his energy toward other passions.

What’s clear is that Michael Jordan remains a symbol of excellence. Whether it’s with a basketball, a fishing rod, or a lit cigar, the GOAT knows how to steal the spotlight. And while many remember him for soaring through the air at the United Center, he now prefers to sail in his own lane—with the ocean as his court and the prize money as proof that greatness never retires.