8 Sports Personalities That Value Honesty and Transparency Over Everything Else

Sportspeople are often popular with fans because of their impressive performance. But there are some who have earned regard and appreciation for being honest, transparent and forthcoming. Here are 9 sports personalities who are known for their ‘Seedhi Baat':

1. Rahul Dravid

   Rahul “The Wall” Dravid is considered one of the best captains to have ever been on the Indian Cricket team. He is lauded for his excellent form, modesty, willingness to help young players, healthy attitude towards opponents and respect for the captain. He politely refused an honorary Doctorate from an esteemed institution by stating that he should earn it only by working towards it.

2. Vijender Singh

   Even after exiting amateur boxing a few years back, Vijender Singh continues to be the poster child for boxing in India. As a young boy growing up in Haryana, he trained with home-made equipment and went on to win multiple titles. He mentors young boxers and uses his platform to bring awareness about the challenges encountered by athletes in India. When asked about when India will have another Vijender, he promptly highlights the importance of fund allocation, policy changes and proper equipment in training.

3. P.V. Sindhu

   The 27-year-old shuttler is the first Indian to become the Badminton World Champion and the first Indian woman to earn an Olympic Silver medal. Before her win at the BWC, she struggled with a string of losses in the final rounds of successive tournaments and was even criticized by headlines. However, at a young age she shared her technique with younger athletes, humbly accepted her defeat and told reporters that she would keep trying and “do better”.

4. Dutee Chand

   The first Indian athlete to come out as queer, Dutee said "coming out of the closet" was better than "hiding" her personal life from the public. In 2014, the young sprinter was asked to step down from her athletic participation following hyperandrogenism tests. She promptly filed an appeal, was able to compete again, and went on to win multiple international medals. She is unafraid of challenging the rules and has been candid about every aspect of her life- always giving us the 'Seedhi Baat'.

5. Megan Rapinoe

   As captain of the US Women’s National Soccer team, Megan Rapinoe has won a lot of hearts due to her personal integrity. Not to mention her stellar performance that won her the Women’s Ballon D’Or and Best Women’s FIFA Player awards amongst others, in 2019. She is fearless, and vocal about social injustice, racial issues, discrimination in the sports industry and is an avid activist for social equality.

6. Kane Williamson

   New Zealand is well-known for its teams’ fair-play. Captain of the New Zealand Cricket team Kane Williamson has garnered many fans since his test debut versus India in 2010. His batsmanship skills and principled conduct have shone through often. Recently, Kane missed a IPL game due to an injury and was quoted by the captain David Warner that he wanted to play for the team despite it.

7. Sue Bird

   Sue is a popular female basketball player. She plays as guard on the Women’s NBA team Seattle Storm. She has thrice been awarded the Kim Perrot Sportsmanship Award for being the player who most "exemplifies the ideals of sportsmanship on the court— ethical behavior, fair play and integrity." The award is proof of her exemplary behaviour in and off the court.

8. Roger Federer

   With his 8 Wimbledon men's singles titles, 6 Australian Open titles, 5 consecutive US Open titles and grand slam among other achievements, Roger Federer is a household name when it comes to Tennis. He is known to wear his heart on the sleeve, engaging in friendly banter in court and being bold enough to express his emotions on screen, always the 'Seedhi Baat'.