During competition, athletes are often cheered on by fans, and in return those athletes do their best to win. But when an athlete is not competing, does he or she still have a responsibility to fans? Some say that athletes are public figures that others look up to, and therefore their behavior needs to be upstanding at all times. Others argue that athletes should be allowed to enjoy private lives outside of their sport. What do you think?

Write an essay to defend your stance on this issue. Include examples that support your viewpoint about an athlete's responsibility to fans.