A cheater, a drug user, and now a murderer. Over the past few years, several athletes have destroyed their public image as another, less respectable side, has emerged into the public. Among these are Tiger Woods, Lance Armstrong, and South African Oscar Pistorius.

The first most notable athlete “downfall” was Tiger Woods. About four years ago, it was released by the media that the married Woods was having multiple affairs. When these rumors were confirmed, many people found it very difficult to look up to him as he was no longer setting a good example for those who viewed him as a role model.

“I think he may possibly be the best golfer that we have seen, but I do not respect him personally” said senior Danielle Hafer.

Woods has worked to rebuild his public image over the past few years, but no one will ever be able to forget the horrible things he did to his family.

More recently, Lance Armstrong’s life came crashing down in front of the world’s eyes. Armstrong was known as one of the best cyclists that had ever lived but after he confessed to his use of performance enhancers his public image has been shattered.

“To see that happen, ruins an image that you had,” said Hafer.

Armstrong had been previously accused of using performance-enhancing drugs, but he completely denied them and even sued some of the accusers. Much of the public believes that the most tragic thing was not that his titles were stripped from him, but rather that the organization that he had built up was now in shambles.

“I support what [Livestrong] stands for, but not him,” said senior Sam Barth.

Armstrong did step down from the organization, but his name will always be associated with it. Livestrong however, has done an overwhelming amount of good work for people diagnosed with cancer, which will never be forgotten.

The most recent athlete “downfall” was that of Oscar Pistorius, a South African athlete. Pistorius was one of the 2012 London Olympics standouts, as he is the first double amputee to compete in the Olympics. He offered inspiration and hope to young athletes with disabilities, but his recent criminal actions have destroyed his public image. He is in the midst of a trials where is being accused of killing his girlfriend.

“I couldn’t believe it. What the heck happened? After watching him overcome the obstacles and heard his life story you just build this picture of a person who you want to imagine as larger than life, which was shattered,” said Hafer.

Needless to say, many Americans have been shocked and disappointed with the actions of the successful and once admirable athletes.

“I think you have to be careful who you idolize, because they are still human,” said Hafer.