It is not often that we can acknowledge athletes for contributing to the world in a way that is equal to, or in excess of what they produced in their respected sport. Sometimes this excess can be revealed in the worst light.
While some choose to end their story in retirement, others commence a new chapter and use their status for charitable work. Others find themselves mired in controversy as revelations are made.
Shane Warne is one who manages to do both, seemingly without shame.
The greatest leg spinner retired from international cricket in January 2007, leaving the Test arena with 708 wickets and a reputation of being one of the game’s greats, and for being a rogue who managed to find himself in trouble.
Endorsements greeted Shane Warne wherever he ventured, being recognised as the face of Advanced Hair (yeah, yeah), Victoria Bitter (2007/2008 cricket season), 888 Poker and recently McDonalds, among others
In late 2010, a TV talk show hosted by Warne was aired. However after just five episodes, the show was axed, having received a poor reception. It was a wrong’un so to speak.
A musical was also produced based on the life of Warne, but arguably his greatest work derives from his self titled charity, The Shane Warne Foundation.
Established in 2004, Warne has continually thrown in time and money behind the foundation that works to “enrich the lives of seriously ill and underprivileged children and teenagers in Australia” as stated on the website.
The other side of Warne’s life is hardly as complimentary.
Sex claims, porn stars and Liz Hurley have dominated the headlines, all but undoing all the positive work Warne achieves through his charity.
Warne may be an example of both self-indulgence and selflessness; however the names to follow have simply chosen to give, once sport was no longer of priority.
Mohammed Ali, Steve Waugh, Glenn McGrath and Imran Khan have given back to the community in different ways, but all with charity in mind.
Ali formed a Parkinson’s disease centre in Arizona and Waugh was credited the Australian of the year award for his work in India. McGrath carried on his wife’s legacy by heading the McGrath Foundation while Imran turned to politics in hope to represent his people and work to achieve harmony.
Who’s your nomination for a sportsman who has left the game, and become larger than life?
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