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What are some examples of great sportsmanship moments in history that have shaped the world of sports?

Dexter Syrad

Sportsmanship means playing fair and being respectful to your opponents, no matter how tough the competition may be. Throughout history, there have been many examples of great sportsmanship moments that have helped shape the world of sports.

One of the most famous examples is from the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. During the medal ceremony for the men's 200-meter race, American runners Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised their fists in a black power salute, to bring attention to racial discrimination that was happening in America at the time. This was a powerful statement, and although they were criticized and faced consequences for their action, it has become an iconic image of standing up for what you believe in and making your voice heard.

Another example is from a tennis match in the 1980s, between American John McEnroe and Swedish player Mats Wilander. During the match, a call was disputed, and McEnroe argued with the umpire. However, after seeing the replay, McEnroe realized he was wrong and apologized to the umpire and his opponent. This moment showed that it's important to own up to your mistakes and respect those around you.

More recently, during the 2018 Winter Olympics, cross-country skiers from Switzerland and Canada collided during a race. Instead of pushing ahead to gain an advantage, Canadian skier Alex Harvey stopped to help the Swiss athlete get back up on his feet. This act of kindness and sportsmanship was praised by spectators and athletes alike.

These moments, and many others like them, show that sportsmanship isn't just about winning or losing, but about how you conduct yourself during competition. It's important to remember that sports are about more than just the game itself, they're about the people involved and the relationships we build through competition.

In conclusion, there have been many great sportsmanship moments throughout history that have helped shape the world of sports. These moments teach us important lessons about fairness, respect, and kindness, both on and off the field. So, let's always strive to be good sports and make the world of sports a better place for all!