England football's Lauren James recently found herself in the eye of a storm during the quarter finals of the FIFA Women's World Cup, following a 'moment of madness’— as described by Gary Lineker—that resulted in a red card. Meanwhile, rugby's Owen Farrell, following a contentious high tackle in a RWC warm up game against Wales, faced the spectre of media & fan's scrutiny, culminating in what Andy Farrell, Ireland head coach and Owen's father, described as a “disgusting circus”.

 

In both scenarios, the glare was unwavering and, yes, a circus. But more than a testament to their skills or lack thereof, these incidents speak volumes about the pressure-cooker environment in which top-tier athletes operate.

 

With information traveling at lightening speeds, athletes face a new adversary: the relentless, ever present eye of digital media. The world revels in their success, but is equally unforgiving of their transgressions, no matter how minor. This scrutiny is not without consequence with elite athletes often facing elevated levels of anxiety and depression. The question remains: in such a visible, volatile arena, how can the mental health of athletes be shielded?

 

The role of leadership, as demonstrated in the responses to both James and Farrell, is paramount. Sarina Wiegman, England’s football manager, chose empathy over admonishment. Instead of consigning James’s actions to the books of football notoriety, she employed it as a teaching moment, recognising the unintentional nature of James's actions and ensuring her young prodigy learns rather than languishes. Steve Borthwick's vocal defence of Farrell further reiterates the leadership ethos: protect, support, and guide. Borthwick lambasted what he saw as a character assassination of his captain, underscoring the vital role leadership plays in acting as a bulwark against external pressures.

 

The role of leadership in such contexts is multifaceted. Leaders must act as a buffer, insulating players from undue external stress, whilst also fostering an environment of trust and understanding within the team. They must be the voice that champions the human behind the athlete, recognising that beneath the surface - the near-superhuman prowess - lies a vulnerable individual.

 

But perhaps the most salient takeaway from these incidents is the imperative for a broader cultural shift. Just as leadership within sports evolves to become more understanding and protective, so must the world beyond the stadium’s walls. Fans, media, and governing bodies alike must recalibrate their expectations, recognising the humanity of athletes and extending the same compassion they'd expect in their own moments of faltering.

 

The mental well-being of athletes is not just a point of discussion—it’s an urgent mandate. As the lens zooms in on every misstep, may the world remember the immense pressure that comes with the territory and the pivotal role of leadership in navigating this treacherous terrain.