In a time where the conversation of the day often leaves us divided and bitter, there is no denying our collective love for a good comeback or underdog story. Whether it’s in politics or sports, there is a certain level of respect that we all feel for an individual or team that overcomes bleak odds in an unlikely return or rise to legitimacy. From Lance Armstrong and the 2010 Butler Bulldogs, to Tiger Woods and Bill Clinton, stories of amazing perseverance through adversity have the ability to transcend politics, and bring us together as Americans.
We are also an extremely forgiving country, built on the principle of second chances for those who are at an inherent disadvantage or have devastated their lives through mindless mistakes. When we see the media give a team or player slim odds in a game or political election, there is a unified sense of commodore that develops amongst us as we root for the underdog or comeback kid. The cinderella story is a favorite in America’s great history, and so is the tale of the celebrated individual returning from the depths of American media purgatory.
As we see Tiger Woods return at The Masters this week, it is already apparent that the comeback/underdog phenomenon will continue. Though The Masters is an extremely controlled sports environment, the reception and the forecasted tournament ratings do not lie. If Woods stays in contention throughout the weekend, there is no doubt that ESPN and CBS will see a huge leap in viewership, as the return to golf by Woods may be the biggest sports comeback story since Lance Armstrong at the Tour De France.
Following three months of relentless paparazzi and endless media coverage, Tiger is returning to the toughest mental sport of all, Golf, with the immense weight of his terrible private transgressions and their negative effects on his family, friends, and fans buried deep in his every thought. The immensity of his popularity transcends race and borders, and his comeback to golf is giving traditional foes a chance to unite during a difficult time in our politics, and enjoy the comeback of a troubled golf legend.
For those who are entrenched in the divisive world of day to day news and politics, the chance to take a brief break from the recent ugliness of the past few months is a welcomed one. The comeback story of Tiger Woods is a great example of the resilience of the American spirit, and thus attracts us to the common respect we all share for great achievement. We love the underdog because more than likely we’ve been in their shoes. Our imperfections are put on trial every day. Therefore, let’s enjoy another chapter in the great American comeback story, and unite in the name of sport and second chances.
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