The internet has become a powerful resource for uniting people. And I can’t think of anything in the world that unites people in the same way that hatred does.
The internet has become a powerful resource for uniting people. And I can’t think of anything in the world that unites people in the same way that hatred does. So after discovering that the rumours about Rebecca Adlington’s nose job were true, I think it’s time the tables were turned and we turn up our noses to the poisonous bullies who have tormented her about her looks in the past.
The thing is, when Adlington began swimming at the age of four, she probably didn’t expect to become a world champion, gain an OBE and consequently retire at 23, to then earn £20,000 an hour as an after dinner speaker. But nor could she have ever imagined that her appearance was to be ridiculed on a national scale by both the press and the public.
Why is it my business?
Firstly, there must be only a handful of people who have the sheer determination, discipline and strength to prepare for the Olympics—to train to a world class standard that most can only dream of, let alone win two gold medals. But I am sure there are millions of men and women who have heard nasty comments being said about them.
And thanks to the rise of social media, these appalling comments about Rebecca’s nose are in writing—an everlasting, bitter reminder to her. It’s a shame some people seem to confuse a gold medallist with a Victoria’s Secret model.
What I think is the worst thing about all the slurs Rebecca has received on her looks is that of all people, she does not deserve this. She is an all-round good person.
She has never shocked the nation with controversial, sexist, racist or even slightly boastful comments, she has never been exposed to doing anything scandalous and despite receiving thousands of hurtful comments from people she has never even met, not once has she ever stooped to their level and replied with an equally malicious comeback (but I am sure her 422K followers on Twitter may have something to say about it).
‘In the mirror’
I do not think any less of Rebecca Adlington after her decision to have a nose job, and even if I did, it is absolutely none of my business. And I would not say the bullies have won – Rebecca is set to marry this year, and financially, she is set up for life.
Most recently, she told the Daily Mail: “I’m definitely happier with how I look now. But I think you still always see the same thing when you look in the mirror.”
I just hope that the “thing” that Rebecca sees in the mirror is a beautiful, charming, successful role model who wowed the nation by both her swimming accolades as well as the way she carries herself in public.
Rebecca Adlington wasn’t warned that worldwide success can also lead to a furore of nasty backlash from internet trolls. But that’s not the point. She shouldn’t have had to be warned.
What do you think? Was the backlash necessary? Have your say in the comments section below.
