After successfully defending both the 100 and 200-meter races in the London Olympics and having the world’s attention, Usain Bolt took the opportunity to rip Carl Lewis. ‘I have no respect for him’, the Jamaican said of Lewis.
Bolt’s comment was made in response to Lewis’ insinuations that something must be done to investigate the real reason behind Jamaica’s dominance in the field. Lewis has intimated that no team has ever dominated the sport the way the small nation is doing now and perhaps some athletes are into doping. This got into Bolt’s nerves and thus the harsh comments.
With the way Bolt has blasted an American Olympic legend, many predict that his endorsement deals with US brands will drastically drop. His image as an ambassador for the sport will forever be tainted. His response to questions in the interview room will dim all the brilliance he displayed in the track. Or is it?
Truth be told, Bolt is one character that loves to talk and backs it up in the field. The way he predicts victories and showboats while everyone around him are pouring it all makes all his achievements even more surprising.
Truth be told, Bolt’s criticism did not come out of nowhere. They were provoked by comments made by another legend, perhaps borne of jealousy and aimed at tarnishing his image long before he is even proven guilty of anything. He was merely defending himself, and boy, he did it really well----both in the interview room and in the field.
Truth be told, as long as Usain Bolt continues with his winning ways, the endorsement deals will continue to pour in. The public wants to see him as a speed icon, not as a model for handling criticism.
As long as he keeps winning, people will forgive him. Maybe his critics won’t. And surely Bolt will eventually lose in his race against father time. But for now, they will have to watch Bolt showboating again and again, index finger on his lips as if to tell them to keep their mouths shut, in yet another victory lap.
No comments:
Post a Comment