What is the meaning of worship and what are its limits? And is great praise for a person or excessive indulgence in a game considered worship of other than Allah?

For a person's actions to be considered an act of worship, two fundamental pillars must be present: perfect love and perfect humility. These two pillars belong exclusively to Allah the Almighty. Mere praise of a person, even if exaggerated, or loving football and playing it excessively, is not considered worship of other than Allah.

Praise of a person may reach the level of polytheism (shirk) if attributes that are due only to Allah are ascribed to them, such as knowledge of the unseen or absolute power. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, forbade excessive praise and flattery of him, fearing the extremism that could lead to polytheism.

Playing football may be blameworthy if it leads to neglecting religious and worldly duties, such as abandoning prayer or neglecting work and studies. However, this does not mean that the player has worshipped the ball in a way that expels him from Islam. Rather, it falls under following one's whims, which diverts from the remembrance of Allah. Following one's whims varies in degrees, ranging from major disbelief to minor sins.