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13 Hilarious Times When Wildlife Stole the Spotlight at an US Sporting Event

raccoon
Image screenshot from Somebody Sign That RACCOON!. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: Major League Soccer

Imagine you are on the edge of your seat, awaiting the ultimate score from your favorite soccer player when an unexpected guest appears on the field. You know that anything can happen on the sport field but you did not see this coming. From a raccoon stealing the show at a soccer match to a squirrel’s playoff heroics and a bird’s daring golf heist – these unexpected animal intrusions have created unforgettable moments, often overshadowing the games themselves! Dive into the chaos as we explore some of the most bizarre and thrilling encounters between sports and nature, where the line between athlete and animal blurs, and anything is possible.

Unexpected Guests at Sporting Events

Image screenshot from Praying Mantis & MLB player become best friends 🤣🤣 | Victor Robles & mantis chill in field. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: MLB

Seems like animals are just as fanatic about sport as the spectators are. Animals have a flair for making unexpected appearances at sports events and more often than not, these surprise guests steal the spotlight from the players. Let’s see some memorable moments and let us know your favorite in the comments!

Sign That Raccoon!

Image screenshot from Somebody Sign That RACCOON!. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: Major League Soccer

Ever heard of a raccoon being the star of a Major League Soccer Match? This naughty intruder caused chaos at a soccer match as the spectators roared and the groundskeepers tried to catch it. After attracting the animal with a trash can and eventually catching him, the raccoon set a record for the longest animal appearance on the field!

Rally Cat’s Grand Entrance

Cat running in front of sport player. Image screenshot from Rally Cat invades the field during Royals-Cardinals. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: Bally Sports Midwest.

A ordinary stray cat soon became a legend when he appeared at a baseball game in St. Louis. Firstly he was an enemy when het bit the groundskeeper, but soon brought luck to one of the players. He earned the name “Rally Cat” when when Yadier Molina from the Cardinals hit a grand slam!

The Curious Case of Rally Squirrel

Rally squirrel on the field. Image screenshot via Rally Squirrel returns to Cardinals-Tigers. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: Bally Sports Midwest

Rally Squirrel came before Rally cat. This determined squirrel appeared during a playoff game and bravely made it across home plate. He was the first lucky charm for the Cardinals when they won the world series that year!

When Birds Meet Baseballs

Moments before the bird got hit. Image screenshot from MLB Birds Getting Hit. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: Highlight Reel.

It is safe to say that not all animal encounters end as well as it did for the Cardinals. In 2001, pitcher Randy Johnson was flabbergasted when he accidentally hit a bird with a fastball during a spring training game. The bird unfortunately lost his life during Randy’s strong strike.

The Sea Gull’s Golf Adventure

Seagull with golf ball. Image screenshot from Seagull steals ball on No. 17 at THE PLAYERS in 1998. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: PGA World Tour

This little birdie picked a safer sport to spectate (or participate). At the Players Championship in 1998, a cheeky sea gull decided to join the game! To Brad Fabel’s surprise, the bird took his golf ball and flew away with it. The bird soon realized that he is causing a stir and dropped the ball in the water, Brad could replace the ball and continue with is game.

Iguanas and Alligators on the Green

Image screenshot from Iguana attacks Andrew Loupe’s ball at the Puerto Rico Open. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: PGA Tour

Golf courses often see various animal visitors, especially in warm climates. This iguana also wanted to be part of the game, and grabbed a ball during the Puerto Rico Open. The animals are always delighted in these situations, but the players not so much.

Bugs Take Over a Baseball Game

Image screenshot from 2007 ALDS Gm2: Midges impact Yankees in the eighth. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: MLB

In a 2007 playoff game in Cleveland, a swarm of bugs invaded the field. The tiny insects seemed to rattle Yankee pitcher Joba Chamberlain, leading to a wild pitch. Cleveland’s pitcher, however, remained calm, helping his team secure the win.

Another Rally Squirrel?!

Squirrel at sport stadium. Image screenshot from Squirrel goes NUTS at Yankee Stadium, scurries across outfield fence!!!. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: MLA

This reaction is priceless, and probably my favorite appearance! Squirrels are very curious animals, but needless to say, they won’t find any acorns in this territory. A squirrel pulled up during a feat at Yankee stadium. It ran in front of spectators and climbed to the top of the foul pole, capturing the crowd’s attention. He might not have gotten his acorn, but he became a crowned legend!

Yankee Stadium Is Looking Like A Favourite

Cat running acros footbal field. Image screenshot on Cat Runs Onto the Field & Interrupts Game | Cowboys vs. Giants | NFL. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: Highlight Heaven

Yankee Stadium, a clear favorite, was chosen to visit by a speedy black cat that caused chaos at a Giants Football Game at the Meadowlands. The cat evaded capture and even reached the end zone!

The Player’s Mantis

Image screenshot from Praying Mantis & MLB player become best friends 🤣🤣 | Victor Robles & mantis chill in field. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: MLB

Animals aren’t limited to the field—they sometimes join players directly. A praying mantis perched itself on a player’s head during a Yankees game. The mantis sat there for two whole innings, adding a unique twist to the game.

See You Later, Alligator Spectator

Image screenshot from Giant Gator Walks Across Florida Golf Course | GOLF.com. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: Golf.com

At a PGA event in Louisiana, alligators are actually regular attendees. These reptiles often lounge near the water hazards, making the game a bit more challenging for the golfers. Despite their intimidating presence, they are usually left undisturbed.

Turtles Dive Into the Action

The high-diving turtle returns at THE PLAYERS Championship. Source: Youtube, Uploaded: PGA Tour

Lastly, along with birds, iguanas, and alligators, turtles have also made their mark on the golf course. At several Players Championships, these slow-moving creatures have been seen diving into the water after lounging on the green. Their leisurely pace offers a stark contrast to the high-stakes action on the course. We are animal lovers and welcome them everywhere, let us know your favorite animal appearance in the comments!

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