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Tomic and Kyrgios' lack of patriotism is a blessing in disguise

Bernard Tomic is struggling – what would you do in his shoes? (Photo: AFP)
Roar Guru
25th May, 2016
2

Adam Scott and Bernard Tomic’s refusal, and Nick Kyrigos’ reluctance to represent Australia at the Rio Olympics is a sad indictment on the mindset of an increasing number of professional sportsmen.

It must sadden and disappoint Olympic legends, like Dawn Fraser and Herb Elliott, that the financial incentive to play in other sporting events takes priority over representing your country.

Surely the honour of representing your country at an Olympic Games and the opportunity to attain a medal should be the pinnacle of any athlete’s career.

However, in the case of Tomic and Kyrigos, it may well be a blessing in disguise, with their unsportsmanlike conduct and petulant behaviour far from befitting a professional athlete representing Australia.

They may be Australia’s top two male tennis players, but their lack of respect for officialdom and their repeated transgressions would make them a liability if they were selected to represent our nation at the Rio games.

The prerequisite to represent your country should be that you do so with pride and passion, and perform to the best of your ability at all times.

It’s fair to say that the jury is still out on whether Tomic and Kyrigos meet the criteria.

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