Editorial: Entertainers', athletes' outbursts aren't equal

It is not uncommon to hear about an athlete or celebrity having an inappropriate outburst in a public arena. From the legendary tantrums of John McEnroe and Naomi Campbell to the more recent outbursts by Serena Williams, Tiger Woods and the ever-inappropriate Kanye West, it is clear that these figures who people look to as role models as well as for entertainment are not always on their best behavior. But while they all receive the same judgment in the media, it is important to note that athletes' expressions of frustration are quite different from a high-profile entertainer expressing displeasure.

For example, while Serena Williams could have possibly handled the foot fault called against her during her semi-final US Open match differently, most of her critics have never been in her particular situation. Athletes, especially those of the professional caliber, are trained for one thing and one thing only: winning. In a competitive setting, when all of their adrenaline, energy and focus are aimed toward one thing and when their definition of who they are is on the line, nothing else matters but winning the game. While it would not be right to sympathize with these outbursts, perhaps there is a way to empathize. Serena, and even college athletes who cannot contain all of their aggression once the game has ended, such as LeGarrette Blount after the Oregon-Boise State opener, deserve a little room before the public begins to criticize their behavior.

But the outbursts of entertainers, who are not working toward a specific goal, fall into a different category than those of athletes. Kanye West's behavior at past award shows when he has refused to recognize the achievements of artists who he would not have personally chosen is absolutely inexcusable. To allow West's continued presence at those awards shows when he has behaved in that manner is irresponsible on the part of the network, and the continued support he has received through record sales and concert tickets is irresponsible on the part of the public. There is no doubt that it is time for West to learn to take life in stride when it does not go according to his plans and to keep his mouth shut. Running onto a stage to detract from another person's success is only a reflection on his own petty personality and poor self-esteem. This form of celebrity outburst is not justified in any way, and it is a pity that professional athletes venting their frustrations at the height of their adrenaline and in the face of surmounting pressure are so loosely paired with this form of unprofessional behavior in the realm of public and media criticism.