Meaning: Daley Thompson, a British former decathlete, made this statement, expressing his opinion on the current state of the decathlon event. The decathlon is a combined event in athletics consisting of ten track and field events, and it is often considered the ultimate test of an athlete's skill, speed, strength, and endurance. Thompson's comment suggests that he believes the personalities of the athletes competing in the decathlon have become less engaging or relatable to the general public.

Thompson's assertion that "Most people doing the decathlon these days are quite boring" may stem from his personal experience and observations as a former decathlete. As a two-time Olympic gold medalist and multiple world record holder in the decathlon, Thompson competed at a time when the event garnered significant attention and public interest. He was known for his charismatic personality, competitive spirit, and colorful antics, which contributed to his popularity and made him a relatable figure to many sports fans.

When Thompson refers to current decathletes as "quite boring," he may be alluding to a perceived lack of colorful personalities or public personas among the athletes participating in the event. In today's sports landscape, athletes often navigate a fine line between maintaining professionalism and engaging with fans through social media, interviews, and public appearances. It's possible that Thompson feels that modern decathletes may be more reserved or less inclined to express their personalities in a way that resonates with the public.

Thompson's assertion that "people don't relate to them" suggests that he believes the current crop of decathletes may struggle to connect with the broader audience. Relatability is a crucial factor in the success and popularity of athletes, as fans often gravitate toward individuals they perceive as authentic, approachable, and inspiring. If the athletes competing in the decathlon are perceived as distant or unrelatable, it could impact the event's overall appeal and the public's interest in following it.

It's important to note that Thompson's viewpoint reflects his subjective opinion and personal experiences within the world of decathlon. As a highly accomplished and iconic figure in the sport, his perspective offers valuable insights into the evolving dynamics of athletics and the challenges faced by modern decathletes in capturing the public's attention.

In response to Thompson's comments, it's worth considering the broader context of sports and entertainment in the contemporary era. With the rise of social media and digital platforms, athletes have more opportunities than ever to cultivate their public personas, engage with fans, and showcase their personalities beyond their athletic prowess. However, navigating the demands of professional sports while maintaining an engaging public image can be a complex balancing act for many athletes.

Furthermore, the evolving nature of media coverage and fan engagement in sports has reshaped the expectations placed on athletes. While some may lament a perceived lack of charisma or relatability among modern decathletes, others may argue that the shift toward a more professional and reserved demeanor reflects the changing norms and pressures within the world of sports.

In conclusion, Daley Thompson's statement sheds light on the intersection of athleticism, personality, and public perception within the realm of the decathlon. His perspective serves as a reminder of the multifaceted nature of sports, where athletic achievements are often intertwined with the ability to captivate and resonate with the public. Whether one agrees or disagrees with Thompson's assessment, his comments prompt valuable discussions about the evolving dynamics of sportsmanship, entertainment, and relatability in the modern era of athletics.