One of the best basketball players of all time, LeBron James has certain drawbacks to his level of success.

Despite dominating the NBA for more than 21 seasons and winning four league MVPs, James most recently gained notoriety after an old photo of his “gnarly” foot went viral and sparked a social media frenzy.

Since his appearance on the cover of Sports Illustrated in 2002 as a senior in high school at the age of 18, the 39-year-old NBA legend has left the basketball world with many unforgettable experiences.

After deciding not to attend college, he entered the 2003 NBA draft and went first overall in what was perhaps one of the best drafts in league history.

James outperformed sons-to-be and eventual Hall of Famers Chris Bosh, Carmelo Anthony, Dwyane Wade, and other All-Stars, including Kyler Korver and Chris Kaman.

 

The years of playing his feet have taken a toll, though, and that dominance and success have come at a cost.

This week, a photo of James on vacation from years ago became viral online. It featured his toes grouped together, with some pointing in different directions from the others.

Reactions to one of the league’s superstars’ feet swamped social media.

This admirer declared, “That’s what years of standing on business looks like.”

“Observe this, children. That’s what it takes to be great,” said someone else.

A third person made the joke, “It looks like he lost his pinky toe in some accident and then just glued it back on sideways.”

“The cost of being exceptional. Even if we enjoy the game, players must endure physically taxing demands to succeed. Savor their play while it lasts, said a fourth.

Following the Lakers’ victory, live TV watchers noticed that LeBron James was “pressuring the Lakers” by donning a Knicks towel. 

 James suffered a foot injury last season that required him to miss time; in an interview with The U.S. Sun, a podiatrist indicated that James probably spends a lot of money on foot care.

In general, I would estimate that LeBron spends about $7,000 a month on orthotics, custom sneakers, and podiatric treatment for his feet.

“LeBron also has a complicated left foot, so in order to get the calluses removed and avoid ulcers, he would need to have surgery.”

“On top of that, he needs to undergo rehabilitation for his right foot. That’s a substantial expense, totaling $84,000 annually.

James has had a successful career despite the difficulties; he has four NBA titles under his belt and is hoping to win five more this season with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Not only that, but he leads the NBA in scoring all-time.