As Australians, one trait we have always held close to our hearts is our sense of good sportsmanship. Take the likes of Don Bradman, Pat Rafter, Kieran Perkins and Lou Richards - collective, shining examples of this.
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All were celebrated in their chosen fields and all represented us, as Australians, with respect and integrity.
News that tennis brat – and Australian – Bernard Tomic admitted in his post-match press conference at Wimbledon that he was bored and unmotivated in his game against German Mischa Zverev, did little to endear him to the public and fans of the game.
He admitted that he was not working hard enough on his game and was content with just picking up money on the circuit to retire with.
“Holding a trophy or doing well, it doesn’t satisfy me anymore. It’s not there,” Tomic said. “I’m going to play another 10 years, and I know after my career I won’t have to work again.”
You could almost hear the collective groans from the nation as he uttered those words. A slap in the face for his competitor.
As Australians this is not what we pride ourselves on. We see ourselves as hardworking, the underdog ready to prove the world wrong. We are respectful – not only of ourselves, but of others. We’re cheeky, down to earth and gracious even in defeat.
Compare Tomic’s disgraceful and embarrassing performance with the good news sport story of the week – that of Queenslander Jeff Horn.
The 29-year-old boxer, who once worked as a PE teacher, defeated Manny Pacquiao to be named the WBO welterweight champion. While bloodied and physically exhausted, he accepted the win with grace and humility. He treated his opponent with respect. Instead of identifying his win as the highlight of his life, he acknowledged his wife and the fact they were expecting their first baby together.
Closer to home, Launceston cyclist Richie Porte proved why he is a popular lad on and off the bike. The Tour de France competitor has put in a herculean effort, climbing to finish fourth in the third stage of the tour. He acknowledged that his team put him in a “fantastic position”.
That is what sportsmanship is about – hard work, support, respect and being a role model. The pride of the nation is shining down on them. Sadly, the same cannot be said about Bernard Tomic.
