Omar Sharif: Hollywood Star, Bridge Master
By Bridgetastic
Most people know Omar Sharif from Lawrence of Arabia and Doctor Zhivago. What they don't know is that the Egyptian actor was one of the world's best bridge players.
Sharif wasn't just a celebrity who dabbled. He competed at the highest levels, representing Egypt in international championships and later playing on the Bridge Olympiad circuit. He even wrote a bridge column that ran in newspapers worldwide.
The Hand That Stopped Production
During the filming of Funny Girl with Barbra Streisand, Sharif reportedly insisted on scheduling around major bridge tournaments. The production crew learned quickly: if there was a world championship happening, Omar would be there—movie schedule be damned.
His most famous moment? The 1964 World Bridge Olympiad in New York. Sharif made a brilliant squeeze play that had spectators buzzing for years. The hand involved a double squeeze that required perfect timing and card reading—exactly the kind of flashy, high-risk play that matched his on-screen persona.
Why Bridge Players Loved Him
Sharif never hid his passion. He'd play in hotel lobbies between takes, teach co-stars the basics, and talk bridge strategy with anyone who'd listen. He brought legitimacy to the game at a time when it needed celebrity endorsement.
But here's what made him special: he lost gracefully. In a 1968 tournament, Sharif misplayed a game contract on national television. His response? A self-deprecating laugh and a promise to do better next time. No ego, just love for the game.
He once said: "Bridge is a game for a lifetime. Acting is just a way to pay for it."
For Omar Sharif, bridge wasn't a hobby. It was the main event.
Want to play like the legends? Start with the basics: Learn Stayman Convention or explore our complete bridge encyclopedia.