NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin has stirred discussion by insisting he is currently more competitive than NBA legend Michael Jordan, his co-owner at 23XI Racing. Hamlin made this assertion in a recent podcast appearance, highlighting the different stages of their sports careers and centering the topic on the ongoing drive for competition—a conversation that puts Denny Hamlin claims greater competitiveness in the spotlight.
Hamlin Compares Competitive Drive With Michael Jordan
Denny Hamlin first crossed paths with six-time NBA champion Michael Jordan in 2006, eventually convincing him, after years of persuasion, to venture into NASCAR. Their professional bond culminated in 2020 with the creation of 23XI Racing, a team that merges both of their competitive identities by using Jordan’s iconic number 23 and Hamlin’s number 11 from his own Cup Series career.
When speaking with the Dale Jr Download podcast, Hamlin made waves by claiming that, despite Jordan’s unmatched period at the zenith of global basketball, he now outpaces his partner in terms of day-to-day competitiveness. Hamlin explained the nuance, noting that Jordan’s prime competitiveness was visible during his playing days and referencing the difference between being an active athlete and embracing retirement.
“Not in today’s world, no,” Hamlin said confidently when asked whether Jordan remained the more competitive of the pair.
Hamlin pointed out that the context of active competition makes a difference, stating,
“He doesn’t have to compete each and every week. So when you’re in season or in your job of being a professional sports athlete, your mentality absolutely is different than what it is after you retire. So no I don’t [think Jordan is as competitive as him].”
—Denny Hamlin, Driver and Team Co-owner
He made it clear that athletes tend to shift their mindset after they step away from professional competition, drawing attention to the marked changes in priorities as life progresses.
Golf Rivalry and Ongoing Banter Between Hamlin and Jordan
Despite no longer competing in basketball, Michael Jordan still brings his infamous intensity and trash-talking demeanor to their interactions, especially on the golf course. Hamlin elaborated on their dynamic, revealing that their initial friendship blossomed through rounds of golf before NASCAR became a shared venture.
“Yeah, he still trash talks. Quite a bit when we go play golf, but so do I,”
Hamlin continued. —Denny Hamlin, Driver and Team Co-owner
He noted that they both share a competitive edge in friendly matches but recognized that Jordan’s approach to life and competition has shifted with time and personal changes, stating,
“So you know we’re very similar in that stance, but I unfortunately never got to see that intense side of him because I think he is a little different now that he’s got a bunch of kids and married, and just life’s different.”
—Denny Hamlin, Driver and Team Co-owner
These comments not only reveal their camaraderie and rivalry but also illustrate how Jordan’s presence still influences the team atmosphere, even off the track.
Recent Highlights for 23XI Racing and Their Drivers
Success has followed the team with a recent win by Bubba Wallace at Indianapolis, marking his first Cup Series victory since Kansas in 2022. This victory was a long-awaited achievement for both Wallace and his co-owners, energizing the team as NASCAR’s pivotal playoff stretch approaches.
With Bubba Wallace now locked into the postseason and Tyler Reddick performing well in the points standings, 23XI Racing is positioned for a strong showing as the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs draw closer. This momentum comes at a time when the team’s public profile is rising, partially fueled by the high-profile partnership between Hamlin and Jordan.
The bold comparison by Hamlin has reignited debates among fans and pundits on the evolving nature of competitiveness among athletes, especially when legends like Michael Jordan transition away from active competition. As NASCAR’s playoffs loom, all eyes remain fixed on 23XI Racing and its leadership, gauging whether Hamlin’s drive will propel the team to even greater success.
