The Jabulani Ball and the Controversy Behind it

The Jabulani ball is one of the most controversial footballs to ever be introduced into the world of football and there are multiple reasons why. So I know you are dying to know; what is so different about this ball compared to other standard match balls and why is there so many controversies behind it? well to start things off in a simple way, this ball has some of the most unpredictable movement when it is struck no matter what technique you use. Also, it was also known to bounce uncontrollably and almost impossible to put any kind of curve on a strike. Note as well that the way it travels in the air can change drastically and become near impossible for any goalkeeper to save. Many pro players have complained about this ball and claimed that it is hard to even control and manipulate your own shot.

Now stepping into more complicated business, the reason this ball moves so unpredictably is because it will always start to sway in the air as if the player struck it with the technique used for a knuckleball. Now we know you may be asking, what exactly is a knuckleball? A knuckleball is a technique that is used to kick a ball that allows it to move uncontrollably in the air because if struck properly, the ball will generate no spin whatsoever and because there is no spin, it can sway almost anywhere and the player that shoots can't even predict where the ball will end up next. Although that sounds amazing, sometimes it can go horribly wrong and completely miss the net even if they didn't strike it with the knuckleball technique which is why so many pro outfield players complain about the Jabulani. Goalkeepers would also complain because of how difficult it is to even get a hand on the ball once its in the air.

Moreover, this ball was first introduced in the World Cup tournament back in 2010 and almost instantly, the complaints and mixed opinions spread around the football community. Even though the Jabulani was still being talked about, FIFA still decided to continue using the ball throughout the tournament. Although this ball has a lot of mixed opinions, there was one player that was known for his ability to master the Jabulani who goes by the name of Diego Forlan and went down in history as the tied top scorer of the 2010 World Cup with a total of 5 goals in the tournament. Diego Forlan knew about the ball having uncontrollable movement before the tournament even started, so to prepare, he personally asked FIFA to send him a copy of the Jabulani so he can get early practice and master the movement of the ball. All of his hard work payed off as he scored some incredible, memorable goals in the tournament. Shortly after the tournament, the ball was banned in all pro matches. The ball can still be purchased but it comes at a very high price. With all that being said, what are your thoughts on the ball? have you had any personal experiences with this ball? Please feel free to let us know by expressing your opinion in the comments section!

Adidas Jabulani Official Match Ball by: Jason Bagley [CC BY-SA]