The Anatomy of a Sports Villain

The best thing about sports is that it has everything, Comedy, Drama, Action, and Good vs. Evil. But, what is a Sports Villain? Who earns the dubious distinction, as the most hated in sports? Well, the one thing that seems consistent with most  Sports Villains is that they most be a winner. No one cares to despise a loser, or the mediocre. In fact, the opposite is true the loser is lovable. So, everyone hates the Yankees( the Evil Empire), but loves the Cubs. Is it that we hate consistent success? The Cowboy's were called America's team, but is there a more hated franchise by non-Cowboy fans? A 2009 USA Today poll concluded that the Cowboys were the most hated NFL team, more than the Patriots, Steelers , and Giants. Some, of these villains embrace there hated status. The Miami Hurricanes were the most hated, and most winning team in college ball in the 80's, and their band would play the Star Wars Evil Empire theme song to further emphasize their villainous status.Terrell Owens, has made a mantra out of "They love to hate me!"
 The other reason for the villain status is moral turpitude, of any kind. Break the law? I hate you! Disagree with public opinion too loud? I hate you! Cheat on your wife? You scumbag! Kobe Bryant was one of the most popular NBA players, till he was accused of allegedly raping a Eagle, Colorado hotel maid. Despite never being convicted of the alleged crime, he is still hated due to this indiscretion. Tiger Woods was the most beloved athlete in sports, and a couple of 9 iron shots to the head, and a smashed Escalade later we find out Jack Nicklaus' was not the only legend he was chasing.  Tiger had a list of scattered trim that would make Wilt the Stilt crack a smile. But, does this make him a villain? Of course he's the best golfer in the world, and we only hate winners. John Daly, however admits to alcoholism, has been accused of adultery, and drug abuse, and still remains a popular figure on the PGA amongst the fans. He's not the #1 golfer in the world though, so John is just misunderstood.
So what makes a Sports Villain? Well, unlike movie villains they win most of the time, they embrace their villain status, and they are not always good citizens. Why do we need to have Sports Villains? It's how we are entertained. There must Good vs. Evil, Us vs. Them, and Underdog vs. Favorite. Without this duality it's just a game, and who want's to watch that?!


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