It’s one of the quirks of the English language that, if you didn’t know any better, you could imagine that the words sportsmanship and gamesmanship were synonyms. But, of course, they mean almost the complete opposite. Gamesmanship is the art of winning by underhand or devious means. It places victory above any code of gracious behaviour.
Whereas sportsmanship entails an attitude that transcends winning and losing and instead places an emphasis on mutual respect and appreciation. In the pursuit of glory it refuses to compromise with the principles of fair play and a magnanimous spirit.
Related: Lexi Thompson's trial by TV viewer shows why golf struggles to grow | Anya Alvarez
Related: 20 great Ashes moments No17: Flintoff and Lee's exchange at Edgbaston, 2005
Continue reading...