play for love

play for love

To play purely for one's pleasure or for a love of the game, sport, etc., rather than for money or for other stakes. A truly great player plays for love, not because a win might benefit his bank account the next day. A: "You're pretty great with those cards. Interested in making this next game a little bit interesting with a wager?" B: "Sorry, pal, I only play for love."See also: love, play