Archive

Twitter, the social media service that allows real-time connection with fellow users all over the world, has also made it possible for you to despise the athletes you once admired — the very same athletes whose presence on Twitter compelled you to get an account in the first place.

"I love the NBA and I've always liked how Lebron James plays the game and how he's stayed out of trouble and has had a great career despite all of the pressure on him since an early age," said Kris Mazur, an NBA fan in New York. "So when I heard he was active on Twitter I decided to join up and follow him. Three days later and there is no other athlete I have ever despised more than Lebron James."

Mazur's story is similar to many other fans on Twitter across all sports — from basketball and football to NASCAR and golf — who had hoped to follow their favorite athletes beyond news reports and soundbites.

"I eventually had to delete my Twitter account because I realized that I had started to root against every athlete and every team," said Dallas sports fan Kendall Riley. "Twitter was ruining sports for me. I've learned that it's better I just watch them perform on the field and not know that they can't spell, are stunningly egotistical or misogynistic, or just generally uninteresting and douchey."

Women's basketball players are using the 2011 Women's Final Four as a platform to apologize for their existence and love of the sport.

"We apologize for even taking up your time to issue this statement," said some female basketball player at a press conference, "because we know you want to see less of us, not more. But we just feel the need to apologize for being alive and for enjoying a sport that you also like. We can't change it, but we hope it doesn't ruin your life too much."

The female basketball players say they plan to complete their tournament, but don't want you to feel pressured to watch it or read about it.