'How Much Do You Want?' – Shaq Likes To Keep Things Simple When Leaving A Tip – 'The Most Someone Said Was $4,000'

When it comes to leaving tips, Shaquille O’Neal, well-known for having a big personality on and off the court, takes a straightforward stance – simply ask. The retired NBA superstar likes to keep things simple when showing appreciation for good service.

In a 2017 appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Shaq shared his unique tipping style, and it's about as direct as it gets. “When I'm at restaurants, I am a big tipper,” he told Kimmel. His strategy? Providing a clear incentive: He says to the server, “The quicker I get my order, the bigger your tip will be.” 

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Before leaving, Shaq asks the server, “How much do you want?” It's not a trick; it's a genuine offer. The most anyone has ever asked for? $4,000. And just like that, Shaq said, “Okay, no problem.” According to Shaq, the server said, “Oh my god, you’re going to pay my rent for two months.”

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However, as many service workers know, Shaq’s kindness benefits more than the restaurant wait staff. He’s also a big tipper regarding valets, as he likes to leave about $300 for them to park his car. “And if you don’t have cash, how do you give them that $300?” Kimmel asked him. “I won’t stop,” answered Shaq laughingly, “I’ll just keep driving.”

In another instance of generosity, Shaq also randomly paid off a man’s engagement ring. In 2021, a young man at a Zales store was stunned when Shaq overheard him discussing payments for an engagement ring and quietly stepped in to cover the bill. As seen in a video of the good deed, Shaq handed his credit card to the clerk without any fanfare, shook the customer’s hand, and simply walked away after paying.

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Shaq, who made millions of dollars during his basketball career and is still successful today as a business owner and sports analyst, is aware of the need to give back – “I like to show people my appreciation.” 

His mother, Lucille O’Neal, and his stepfather taught him the importance of kindness at a young age, and he has carried that lesson with him ever since. He believes in giving back to the community one kind deed at a time, whether $4,000 for a server, $300 for a valet, or even paying the college tuition for 15 of his friends.

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