Maté, a traditional South American drink, has become a popular ritual among soccer players, particularly in countries like Argentina and Uruguay. It is more than just a beverage; it involves a meticulous preparation process and is often enjoyed communally, fostering connections and conversations among teammates.
The preparation of maté involves filling a gourd with Yerba maté leaves, adding hot water, and using a special metal straw called a bombilla to sip the drink. The first pull is usually bitter and is discarded, while subsequent additions of hot water maintain the flavor throughout the communal drinking session.
While Uruguayans tend to be more solo drinkers of maté, Argentines often share the drink among teammates, creating a sense of community and camaraderie. The act of preparing and sharing maté is deeply ingrained in the culture of these countries, extending to workplaces and soccer teams alike.
Although maté is not a performance-enhancing substance, a study found that it may improve athletic performance by increasing fatty acid oxidation when consumed on an empty stomach. For many players, however, the significance of maté lies in its ability to evoke feelings of home and comfort, especially for those who have moved far from their native countries to pursue their soccer careers.
Players like Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Antoine Griezmann have embraced maté not for its fame but for the sense of connection and familiarity it brings. Whether enjoyed alone or with teammates, maté serves as a cultural touchstone that transcends borders and unites players in a shared experience.
