Ruud Gullit’s voice is laced with a mix of conviction and caution as he tackles the thorny issue of athletes taking a stand on social causes. He recalls a defining moment when he dedicated his Ballon d’Or to Nelson Mandela.
Why Mandela?
Gullit’s answer is straightforward: he was deeply moved by the anti-apartheid message in reggae music. His silent support for the ANC over the years culminated in a bold gesture when he won the prestigious award. What he didn’t expect was the backlash, especially in Italy, where many didn’t know who Mandela was.
A Personal Connection
Gullit’s encounter with Mandela left an indelible mark. The former president revealed that news of Gullit’s dedication had reached him in prison, and he feared repercussions for the athlete. This moment, Gullit confesses, was incredibly emotional. Later, Mandela invited Gullit to South Africa, where he was honored with a medal and named a Commander by the government – a recognition that fills Gullit with immense pride.
The Dilemma of Speaking Out
Gullit is torn on whether athletes should engage in social causes during their active careers. He points to Marcus Rashford’s commendable work for schoolchildren, which was met with negative reactions. It’s a sad reality, Gullit notes, that speaking out often leads to more harm than good during one’s career. This is why many athletes wait until after retirement to voice their opinions. The damage can be immense and more detrimental than beneficial, leading to a cautious silence.
Vinicius Jr. is another case in point, Gullit observes. Speaking out is brave, but it shouldn’t come with punishment. The need for change in this area is palpable.