Is backgammon considered a sport?

GulBara · Joined: 14 Jun 2007 Posts: 19

I know that chess and bridge are considered sport disciplines and I wonder if backgammon falls under the same category. I know that the answer may vary depending on the country, I am particularly interested in finding out about the United States. Thanks.

GammonGo · Joined: 14 Jun 2007 Posts: 14

I have heard that at least one visa has been issued in the U.S. to a backgammon player and that when you are applying for a visa you may list backgammon under your “special abilities” and it ranks next to sports like baseball, basketball or football. I thought this was pretty interesting, maybe it will help you with your question.

As for other countries I can’t really say but I am from Denmark and here backgammon is recognized as a sport. It is organized and overseen by a backgammon federation and is indeed considered o n par with Bridge and Chess, along with other games even including football (soccer to you).

Deuce · Joined: 14 Jun 2007 Posts: 38

Backgammon is indeed a sport (although it is a sport of the mind more than the physical body). It is considered a sport however in many countries around the world and as you are aware there are all sorts of tournaments and methods of measuring backgammon skills. Just as physical athletes have to practice to strengthen their skills and strategy, so do backgammon players. Of course, if you are a backgammon player you may not want to refer to yourself as an “athlete”, but you are indeed playing a sport.