CHRISTMAS IN 5 ... With Chris Gayle

Cricket legend Chris Gayle has a deep love for Christmas, cherishing the season as a time for reflection, family, and celebration. "Christmas is a very special time to me because it's a reflective time, and I enjoy partying with my family," Gayle shares.

This year has been particularly meaningful for the 'Universe Boss', filled with blessings and achievements. From his role as ambassador of the T20 World Cup, helping to elevate cricket in the USA, to his participation in Cricket Legends Tournaments, 2024 has been a standout year. In entertainment, Gayle celebrated receiving an iTunes No. 1 plaque, a testament to his growing influence beyond sports.

Family milestones also made the year unforgettable, including his brother's wedding. Adding to the joy, Gayle successfully expanded his '40 Shades of Gayle' event to Dubai. As always, he plans to spread cheer by supporting various charities this holiday season.

1. What does Christmas mean to you?

"Christmas for me is a family time, and my favourite memory is when my mother was alive, and our family -- both my parents and my brothers and sisters -- gathered for the Christmas season. Apart from being in Jamaica, I enjoy sharing Christmas with my daughter in St Kitts."

2. How do you make sure the holiday spirit is alive and well for you and your loved ones?

"With my father being 90 years now, I enjoy seeing him happy, especially during Christmas with all his children around. Coming from a poor background, we always try to indulge in all the good food and drinks that Christmas has to offer, such as sorrel and Christmas cake."

3. How do you balance your busy schedule with making time for Christmas?

"Well, I just finished a cricket tournament in Dubai and attended Formula 1 racing in Abu Dhabi. No matter what engagements arise, I always make sure I am with my family for Christmas. So my family back home has to make all the arrangements, purchases, and fixing up for when I return for Christmas."

4. What inspires you to give back during the holiday season?

"At Christmas time, I really like to give back and help out as much as I can. Through the Christmas Gayle Foundation, I enjoy doing Christmas treats in my community and contributing to the children's back-to-school preparations in January."

5. What does the phrase 'Christmas is about giving' means to you?

"That phrase means a lot to me because I grew up in Rollington Town, where my parents couldn't afford to pay my school fee. At times, I had to sell bottles to buy food. So I always feel sympathy for the less fortunate and I always try give back, especially at Christmas time."