In the modern era of sports, absolutely none. While there may be exceptions, the large majority are more concerned with endorsement deals, entourages, social media followings than dedication to their sport or setting an example of sportsmanship. They make more news spitting on other players or shoving their coaches.
If I had to pick an exception, it would be Pat Tilman who gave up a lucrative and successful football career with the Arizona Cardinals to serve in the US military as a member of the Rangers.
In his words:
When the United States’ invaded Afghanistan, Tillman decided to put his professional career on hold in order to join the U.S. military. “Sports embodied many of the qualities I deem meaningful,” he said in 2002. “However, these last few years, and especially after recent events, I’ve come to appreciate just how shallow and insignificant my role is . . . It’s no longer important.”
Fortunately, not all athletes are like the “problem children” you described. The problem is there’s enough of them to make far too much noise.
And let’s not forget about the idiotic sport media who amplifies them.
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Awesome point. At times, I think the sports commentators are worse!!!
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