IELTS Writing task 2: Behavior of professional sportsmen

Many people think that the behavior of professional sportsmen off the field is not important as long as they are good players. To what extent do you agree or disagree with it?

There is debate over whether the personal lives of professional athletes should matter to the public. While some argue that only their performance on the field is important, I believe that their behaviour off the field is equally significant, given their influence as role models.

On the one hand, it is understandable why some people feel that a sportsman's private behaviour is irrelevant. Firstly, athletes are primarily employed to compete and succeed in their chosen sport. Their main responsibility is to perform well, entertain fans, and help their teams achieve victory. Judging them based on their personal choices could be seen as unfair, especially when those choices do not directly impact their sporting abilities. Furthermore, some argue that everyone has a right to a private life, and athletes should not be held to higher moral standards simply because they are in the public eye. Thus, it is easy to see why many believe that sporting ability should be the only measure of an athlete.

Nevertheless, there are strong reasons to pay attention to the behaviour of sports professionals outside the arena. Firstly, many young people look up to athletes and attempt to emulate them, not just in sport but also in life. If a sports figure behaves irresponsibly or engages in illegal activities, it sends a harmful message to their fans. Secondly, athletes often represent their teams, sponsors, and even their countries. Poor behaviour off the field can damage the reputation of these organisations and undermine public trust. Therefore, it is reasonable to expect sportsmen to behave responsibly both on and off the field.

In conclusion, although sporting skill is crucial, I believe that professional athletes have a wider responsibility to act as positive role models. Their behaviour off the field is important and should be held to a high standard.

(292 words)  

Kien Pham Tieng Anh (IELTS 8.0/ Thạc sĩ TESOL)