Bans in professional sports aren’t just penalties—they’re career killers that leave lasting stains on athletes, teams, and entire leagues. Whether it’s gambling scandals, doping violations, or shocking misconduct, these decisions have shattered legacies and ignited fierce debates over fairness, integrity, and second chances.
Some of the biggest names in sports have found themselves permanently exiled. Here’s a look at the most infamous bans in sports history—and the scandals that sealed their fate.
10. Roscoe Tanner (Tennis)
Roscoe Tanner was once a force on the tennis court, known for his blistering left-handed serve and an Australian Open title in 1977. However, his post-tennis life took a far different turn, marred by legal troubles that overshadowed his accomplishments. Tanner faced multiple arrests for fraud, theft, and unpaid debts, including financial schemes that landed him in and out of jail. His repeated misconduct ultimately led to a lifetime ban from professional tennis, a stark fall from grace for a player who had once competed at the highest levels of the sport.
9. John McEnroe (Tennis)
John McEnroe’s legendary tennis career wasn’t just defined by his talent—it was also marked by his infamous temper. Known for his intense rivalries and explosive on-court outbursts, McEnroe frequently clashed with umpires and officials. In 1984, after racking up a series of fines and penalties for his behavior, the Stockholm Open issues him a suspension. However, it was short-lived, as McEnroe quickly complied with tour regulations, allowing him to return to competition. Despite his fiery persona, he remains one of the greatest players in tennis history, with seven Grand Slam titles and a reputation as one of the sport’s most unforgettable figures.
8. Tucupita Marcano (MLB)
In June 2024, MLB permanently banned Tucupita Marcano for violating gambling policies. The 24-year-old Padres infielder placed 387 bets on baseball games, including 25 on Pirates games while on their roster. Marcano wagered over $150,000 between October 2022 and November 2023, winning only 4.3% of his bets.
7. Tonya Harding (Figure Skater)
Tonya Harding’s story is one of talent, controversy, and a scandal that shook the world of figure skating. A gifted skater with a powerful, athletic style, Harding made history as one of the first American women to land a triple axel in competition. But her legacy was overshadowed by the infamous 1994 attack on rival Nancy Kerrigan—an assault carried out by Harding’s ex-husband and bodyguard in an attempt to sabotage Kerrigan’s Olympic bid. While Harding denied direct involvement, she later pleaded guilty to hindering the investigation. The fallout was swift and unforgiving, leading to a lifetime ban from competitive figure skating by the U.S. Figure Skating Association. What could have been a celebrated career instead became one of the most infamous scandals in sports history.
6. Steve Howe (MLB)
Steve Howe, a talented relief pitcher, was suspended seven times by MLB for substance abuse violations. In 1992, he received a lifetime ban but successfully appealed. Despite his struggles, Howe managed to pitch 12 seasons in the majors, winning Rookie of the Year in 1980 and helping the Dodgers clinch the 1981 World Series.
5. Lance Armstrong (Cycling)
Lance Armstrong, seven-time Tour de France winner, was stripped of his titles and banned for life from cycling in 2012. The USADA exposed his long-term doping program, leading to his confession in 2013. Armstrong’s fall from grace remains one of the most infamous doping scandals in sports history.
4. Ben Johnson (Track and Field)
Canadian sprinter Ben Johnson won gold in the 100-meter dash at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, setting a world record. However, he tested positive for steroids and was stripped of his medal. Johnson was banned for life after a second doping offense in 1993. Despite attempts at reinstatement, he remained blacklisted from international competition.
3. Jenrry Mejia (MLB)
Jenrry Mejia, a former New York Mets pitcher, became the first player in MLB history to receive a lifetime ban for PED use in 2016. He tested positive three times within a year, violating the league’s drug policy. Surprisingly, MLB reinstated Mejia in 2018, allowing him to return to baseball in 2019.
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2. Shoeless Joe Jackson (MLB)
Shoeless Joe Jackson, a star outfielder for the Chicago White Sox, was banned from baseball in 1920 for his alleged involvement in the 1919 World Series fixing scandal. Despite his .375 batting average in the series, Jackson was accused of taking $5,000 from gamblers. A recently discovered 1924 trial transcript confirms his participation in the scheme.
Read More: 14 Athletes Who Were Blacklisted or Banned for Life
1. Pete Rose (MLB)
Pete Rose, baseball’s all-time hits leader, was permanently banned from MLB in 1989 for betting on games while managing the Cincinnati Reds. Despite his 4,256 career hits, Rose remains ineligible for the Hall of Fame due to his gambling activities, which violated the sport’s integrity rules.
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