KUALA LUMPUR – The debate over athletes’ social media usage remains ongoing.
As the Paris Olympics draw near, could Malaysia’s athletes adopt a different approach while competing in France?
Opinions vary among fans and critics: is it more crucial to please the fanbase or to focus entirely on performing at the pinnacle of sports?
Former world number one Datuk Lee Chong Wei, Malaysia’s most decorated Olympian with three silver medals, has frequently shared his thoughts on athletes and social media. However, these views haven’t always been well-received.
Having come from an era when social media was unfamiliar, Chong Wei acknowledges the changing times. While social media has its drawbacks, he also recognises its benefits.
But where should the line be drawn?
Last month, the British press noted that England’s national footballers chose to turn a blind eye to their social media during the Euros in Germany to avoid distractions and online abuse.
Although the Three Lions fell short of their first European crown, reaching consecutive finals was an achievement in itself.
Did reducing social media usage help England reach the Euro final? Perhaps yes, perhaps no.
Considering the rise in unchecked social media attacks worldwide, taking a break might not be a bad idea.
Social media can be a double-edged sword for athletes.
On one hand, it offers a platform for direct interaction with fans, personal branding, and sponsorship opportunities. It also provides a source of motivation and support from followers.
On the other hand, it exposes athletes to intense scrutiny, criticism, and online abuse, which can impact mental health and focus.
The risks associated with social media for Olympic-bound athletes are significant.
Athletes can become targets of cyberbullying, harassment, and negative comments, which can lead to anxiety, stress, and even depression.
A notable example is US gymnast Simone Biles, who has spoken about the mental health challenges she faced due to online scrutiny during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Athletes need to be mindful of how they handle social media comments. Experts advise setting boundaries, such as limiting time spent on social platforms, avoiding reading comments during competitions, and having a support system to manage their accounts.
Psychologists also recommend focusing on positive interactions and using social media for constructive purposes.
In Malaysia, it’s understood that no National Sports Association (NSA) has issued regulations or strict orders for athletes to abstain from using social media in Paris.
They prefer to treat athletes as adults, allowing them to make their own decisions.
Over the past two months, the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) has proactively limited media interactions for its Olympic-bound shuttlers.
This step was taken following incidents like the racial abuse faced by former national women’s singles shuttler S. Kisona during the 2021 Sudirman Cup.
Regardless of the slant of the news reports, there will still be dubious and questionable accounts leaving hateful and offensive comments in the comment section.
A total of 26 Malaysian athletes will compete in this year’s Paris Olympics.
The Malaysian badminton team, except for independent shuttlers Lee Zii Jia and Goh Jin Wei, have begun a 10-day centralised training camp in Aire Sur La Lys, northern France.
The goal for the Malaysian team remains unchanged: to secure the elusive Olympic gold.
Whether Malaysian athletes choose to emulate England’s national football team or not, supporters back home will continue to cheer them on in their pursuit of Olympic glory. – July 16, 2024
Fabian Peter is a sports reporter at Scoop
