Meaning: This quote, by American figure skater Brian Boitano, sheds light on the unfair treatment that athletes often receive from the press. Boitano's words reflect the intense scrutiny and criticism that athletes face when they make even the slightest error, and the tendency for the media to amplify these mistakes to overshadow an athlete's overall performance.

The quote begins with Boitano defending his fellow athlete Sasha, who is portrayed as being unfairly criticized by the press. Despite the fact that Sasha may have made a mistake in her program, Boitano emphasizes that she is still subjected to harsh judgment from the public and the media. This indicates the prevalent culture of perfectionism in the world of sports, where athletes are expected to execute flawless performances under immense pressure.

Boitano's assertion that Sasha "never falls apart" and "never just completely folds and misses everything" conveys a sense of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. It highlights the mental strength and composure that athletes like Sasha possess, even when faced with the immense pressure of high-stakes competitions. This resilience is an essential quality for athletes to possess, as they must be able to bounce back from setbacks and continue to perform at their best despite the scrutiny and criticism they may face.

The quote also points out that the criticism Sasha receives is often disproportionate to the actual mistake she makes. Boitano notes that "usually it's just one mistake," suggesting that the media and public reaction to this single error is far more severe than warranted. This highlights the tendency for the media to sensationalize and exaggerate athletes' mistakes, often overshadowing their overall achievements and hard work.

In a broader context, this quote speaks to the larger issue of the media's portrayal of athletes and the unrealistic expectations placed upon them. Athletes are often placed on pedestals and held to impossibly high standards, which can lead to unfair treatment and criticism when they inevitably fall short of perfection. The pressure to constantly perform at an exceptional level, combined with the intense scrutiny from the media, can take a toll on athletes' mental and emotional well-being.

In conclusion, Brian Boitano's quote shines a light on the unjust treatment that athletes like Sasha often endure at the hands of the press. It underscores the need for a more balanced and empathetic approach to reporting on athletes' performances, and a recognition of their resilience and determination in the face of intense pressure. This quote serves as a reminder of the human element behind the athleticism, and the importance of acknowledging and celebrating athletes' efforts and achievements, rather than solely focusing on their mistakes.