It goes to the next round!
Wales superstar Gareth Bale (32) was in gala form in the 2-1 win in the World Cup playoffs against Austria, scoring two goals. He then sent special greetings to Madrid after the game. In particular to the sports daily “Marca”, which had previously called him a “Welsh parasite” (Bale: “It’s just disgusting, they should be ashamed”).
And now the Real attacker does it again – and settles accounts with the press!
On Friday afternoon he posts a detailed statement on his social media platforms.
“At a time when people are taking their own lives because of the callousness and relentlessness of the media, I want to know who is holding these journalists and the media who allow them to write articles like this accountable? Luckily, I’ve developed a thick skin during my time in public life, which isn’t to say articles like this don’t hurt those on the other end of these vicious stories. I’ve seen the impact media can have on mental and psychological health,” Bale writes.
And further: “I have seen the toll the media can take on mental and physical health. The media expect superhuman performances from professional athletes and are the first to celebrate with them when they deliver. But instead of sympathizing with them when they show even a little bit of human error, they’re ripped to pieces, which in turn fuels anger and disappointment among fans. The daily pressure on athletes is immense, and it’s clear how negative media attention can easily push an already stressed-out athlete – or anyone in the public – over the edge of despair. (…) I want to use my platform to change the way people are reported publicly and how people are criticized – largely because they don’t live up to what are often unrealistic expectations. We all know who the real parasite is!”
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“Marca” had shown a cartoon of a parasite with the head of Bale, slamming its suction proboscis into Real Madrid’s skin. It continued: “Unlike the flea, louse or bed bug, the Bale parasite does not cause its host to itch or become ill, but it does laugh and make fun of the one it lives on. He laughs, applauds, throws himself on the ground, sings as part of his humiliating ceremony, which, fortunately, like all misfortunes, has an expiry date.”
Foto: Bongarts/Getty Images