Sports are often seen as a source of inspiration and an escape from the everyday grind, but they can occasionally be a source of scandal. From doping to match-fixing, numerous examples have existed throughout the history of athletes embroiled in controversy. Here is a list of 10 renowned athletes who were involved in unbelievable scandals that shocked the world.
Nelson Piquet Jr.
He was a renowned Formula One driver who was embroiled in an unbelievable scandal in 2009 when he crashed his car during the Singapore Grand Prix. He claimed afterward that team principal Flavio Briatore had instructed him to crash deliberately, and Piquet provided evidence of this in court. After it was discovered that the crash had been orchestrated, Briatore was banned from Formula One for life, and the governing body FIA heavily fined Renault.
Danny Almonte
In 2001, he became an overnight celebrity after throwing a perfect game at the Little League World Series. However, soon after, it was discovered that Almonte had lied about his age and was actually two years older than he claimed to be. This scandal highlighted the need for better age verification systems in youth sports. Almonte ultimately went on to play professional baseball in his native country but will always be remembered for this unbelievable scandal.
Floyd Landis
Floyd Landis was an American professional cyclist who had a stellar career, winning the 2006 Tour de France. However, he was later found to have tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs and was stripped of his title. This scandal put a huge black mark on his reputation and led him to be banned from cycling for two years. He later admitted to using steroids throughout his career, further damaging his standing in the sport.
Tonya Harding
The American figure skater became an international pariah after she was convicted of planning an attack on her rival, Nancy Kerrigan, in 1994. The scandal ended her career and made her a household name for years to come.
Ryan Lochte
The American swimmer caused an international media frenzy when he falsely claimed that he and two other swimmers were robbed at gunpoint in Rio de Janeiro. He later admitted to fabricating the story, resulting in him receiving a hefty fine and suspension from competitive swimming.
O.J Simpson
The retired NFL player was charged with murder after his ex-wife and her friend were found stabbed to death in 1994. Despite being acquitted, the scandal caused a media storm, leading to Simpson’s ultimate downfall.
Tiger Woods
The world-famous golfer’s personal life was scrutinized after multiple affairs were revealed in 2009. He was vilified by the public and lost several lucrative endorsement deals due to the scandal.
Pete Rose
Rose was accused of gambling on games he participated in and was eventually banned from Major League Baseball for life in 1989. Despite his banishment, Rose remains a fan favorite and an icon of baseball.
Reggie Bush
In 2010, it was found that he received improper benefits from a marketing agent while playing college football for USC. An investigation revealed that Bush had taken money and gifts from agents without knowing the NCAA regulations. This led to his suspension and his having to return his 2005 Heisman Trophy award. He later apologized for his actions and returned to play professional football with several teams afterward.
Mike Tyson
In 1992, Tyson was convicted of rape and sentenced to 6 years in prison, although he only served three years. He was also arrested for assault after a fight at a nightclub in 2006. In addition, Tyson has been accused of domestic abuse against multiple women throughout his life. These scandals have tarnished the legacy of one of the greatest boxers ever to enter the ring.
Sources
- The 20 Biggest Scandals in Sports History– Bleacher Report
- Ryan Lochte– THE U.S SUN
- Mike Tyson– Mirror
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