Every now and then, I get a free ticket from someone, and I look at the price, and it says $800, and I’m thinking, ‘A thousand dollars to see,’ I said, ‘There’s no ballgame in the world worth that kind of money,’ and yet the attendance for sports is more than it ever has been.

The speaker is expressing their surprise at the high ticket prices for sports events, specifically mentioning a free ticket they received that was valued at $800. They question whether any sporting event could be worth such an expensive price and wonder how attendance can remain so high despite these costs.

Upon closer examination of the quote, it reveals deeper insights into consumer behavior and the value people place on entertainment experiences. The speaker's skepticism about spending a large sum on sports tickets prompts reflection on why fans are willing to pay exorbitant prices for live events. This could be attributed to factors such as the emotional connection to their favorite teams or players, the excitement of being part of a communal experience, or the desire to support local businesses and economies through ticket purchases. The quote also highlights a broader cultural phenomenon where high-ticket entertainment is increasingly becoming more accessible yet simultaneously more expensive.

Frank Deford was an American sportswriter known for his insightful commentary on sports culture and issues beyond just the games themselves. He had a long-standing career with Sports Illustrated magazine, contributing articles that explored various aspects of sports through a sociological lens. His work often delved into the human elements of athletics, making him not only a commentator but also an observer of society's relationship with sports.