WBOB Original Reads

Five Athletes Who Have Gone From Riches To Ditches & Back To Riches

6/8/2017

Tyler Salk

Remember that scene in ‘The Hangover’ when there was a tiger in the hotel room? How surprising would that be if it happened in real life? Probably as surprising as if a Tiger was arrested for driving under the influence. Since being the face of golf, Nike, Gatorade and a role model to kids everywhere, Tiger Woods has fallen from grace. His time on top of the world might not be over. After all, there have been other athletes to make comebacks

Here are 5 Athletes to gone from riches to ditches and back to riches:

Kobe Bryant- As we’re watching the NBA finals rematch of a rematch, let’s think back. Who were some of the greatest players of the past couple of decades? One name of everyone’s list is Kobe Bryant. But let’s not forget, the 18-time all-star was accused of rape. Despite issuing an apology to the victim, Kobe was not found guilty and went on to have an incredible career. The face of the Lakers was still loved by the city of Los Angeles. While they never stopped showing him love, and he played well through the allegations, Kobe was able to cause the country to forget the incident.

Michael Phelps- A role model to kids all over America. Phelps could not be described in any other way after dominating the 2004 and 2008 Olympics. That was until there were photos released of the swimmer smoking marijuana from a bong, leading to a suspension. After being arrested for a DUI (I guess Tiger isn’t alone), Phelps returned to the pool, claiming his title as the most decorated Olympian of all time.

Ben Roethlisberger- A two time Super Bowl champion, Big Ben will likely find himself in the Hall of Fame conservation, and deservingly so. With 5 Pro-Bowl appearances, Roethlisberger has been one of the best for a while now. Despite two rape allegations, the Steelers QB has been able to live his life normally. With evidence in one case probably being strong enough to put the star in jail, however the accuser dropped the charges to stay out of the public spotlight. The number 7 jersey can still be found all over Pittsburgh.

Matt Bush- Two years ago, Matt Bush was in a prison cell. Bush let his early promise get to him, causing him to party and get arrested numerous times for DUI and assault. Now? Matt Bush is throwing 100 MPH out of the Texas Rangers bullpen, and has established himself as a solid hurler. Making his MLB debut nine years after being drafted first overall, Bush is trying to show the world what could have been a hall of fame arm.

Michael Vick- Everyone knows the story of Michael Vick. The star Falcons quarterback could run and pass with the best of the best in the NFL. A dog-fighting scandal landed him in prison. Vick returned from prison, hoping to play football again. It didn’t seem likely, but Vick went on to start 48 more games in the NFL. While never admired to the same extent, Vick returned to be a favorite in the eyes of some football fans.