Is this fall
from grace different from that of Tiger Woods? Without a doubt, it is a yes.
Tiger Woods’ infidelity embroiled him in a controversy, and there were
repercussions. Key sponsors - Accenture and General Motors to name a few –
ended their sponsorship deals with, and others such as Tag Heur dropped him
from advertising. Since it was connected
to his personal life, his talent was never put into question, and after his
break he successfully reclaimed his position in the game. Armstrong’s
wrongdoings were those that put his talent, and more importantly ethics, into
question. The lies only added to the disgust felt by his admirers. Armstrong,
unlike Woods, had a survivor story. His comeback in 1998 after battling with
testicular cancer was a source of inspiration for many. The irony lies in our secret joy in seeing a
hero’s feet of clay. There is no doubt that people are shocked, disgusted and
maybe even repulsed. But everyone wants to believe that a hero is just like
them – flawed.
Lance
Armstrong faced the brunt of his interview. He lost his Olympics medal, Tour de
France titles, and SCA Promotions has sued him for $12 million. The public
image of the Livestrong Foundation has taken a beating, as Armstrong’s
credibility and image is on a downslide. It might take a few years before
respect is regained and that can be done only by cooperating with the trial and
focusing on cycling (if and when he is allowed to compete). Public memory is
short-lived, and that can contribute greatly to his comeback. Only hard work
and patience helps heroes come back from the dead.
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