Almost embarked on a significantly different career trajectory before venturing into the realms of acting, writing, and directing.
The iconic figure from “Rocky” shared a personal anecdote about his past involvement in polo, where he once believed that the sport held the key to his “destiny.”
In a reflective caption, he revealed, “A curious tidbit: Stallone translates to Stallion in Italian. An amusing yet factual revelation – for a considerable period, I dedicated myself to pursuing my passion for polo, convinced it was my predetermined path. However, fate had divergent intentions and veered me away from my aspirations.”
He further expressed, “Nevertheless, I refused to accept that as the conclusion of my journey. As one door closed, another one swung open— ushering me into the realms of creativity and resilience. I wholeheartedly embraced the realms of writing and acting, forging a path that was beyond my wildest imagination.”
Accompanied by juxtaposed images of Sylvester Stallone and a portrayal of him on horseback (Getty Images)
Concluding his post with words of empowerment, Stallone imparted, “So, when life throws you off course, remember: Climb back on your horse. Keep fighting.”
The 77-year-old previously delved into his aspirations in polo during his youth.
At the age of 13, Stallone had already attained national recognition as a polo player while residing in Maryland with his father subsequent to his parents’ separation.
Nonetheless, Frank Stallone Sr. seemed to harbor envy towards his son’s accomplishments, as Stallone recounted an incident where his father disrupted a game by shouting from the sidelines before storming onto the field.
In his documentary, “Sly,” Stallone recounted instances of his father interfering with his polo ambitions over the years (Getty Images)
Narrating the event, Stallone shared, “I was attempting a nearside backhand shot, and I hadn’t erred — yet he yelled, ‘You’re exerting too much force on the horse!’”
“[Frank] descended from the stands, seized me by the neck, threw me to the ground, commandeered the horse, and exited the field.”
Reflecting on the episode, he remarked, “I lay there thinking, ‘I never want to encounter a horse again in my entire life.’”
Stallone did revisit polo at the age of 40, extending an invitation to his father to participate in a match. However, during the game, Frank Sr. struck Stallone on the back, causing him to tumble off the horse, narrowly avoiding being trampled. Stallone reminisced, “He simply rode away.”
Recalling the moment his father struck him during a polo match in adulthood, causing him to fall from his horse, Stallone expressed, “That marked the end. I never engaged in polo again from that instant onward.” (Ron Galella/Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images)
Regrettably, the actor stated, “That marked the end. I never engaged in polo again from that instant onward.”
The luminary from “Rambo” transitioned towards the paths of acting and writing, evolving into the cherished Hollywood figure he is recognized as today.
He echoed the sentiment of “Keep punching” from his post during an event in Philadelphia last December.
“Life is akin to a battle,” he proclaimed in a speech to the multitude gathered at the foot of the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. “It’s a challenging struggle, so brace yourself.
Addressing fans during “Rocky Day” in December, Stallone emphasized the resilience needed in life’s challenges, urging everyone to “Keep punching!” (Gilbert Carrasquillo/GC Images)
“You’ll experience victories and numerous defeats. Yet, the ultimate triumph lies in persisting and enduring for yourself and your loved ones. As you stand atop these steps, you are reminded that all feats are attainable.
“Keep punching!” he concluded, met with resounding cheers from the audience.