You meet an athlete. He’s charming, funny, and tells you all the sweet little lies your rom-com-loving heart wants to hear. Y’all are technically dating, but there’s never a true definition of the relationship—just vibes. Fast forward to his big game, and while you’re sitting there, other girls are whispering about him, recounting the same routine he pulled with you.
Baby, hold my hand while I tell you this…
It. Is. A. Cannon. Event.
Now, before y’all start blowing up my comments, let me clarify: I’m not talking about all athletes. Some of them are genuinely good guys. I’m just speaking from my experience, which has been, to put it lightly, a reality TV mess. And trust me, I know a thing or two because I’ve seen a thing or two 😉
Let me run you through my highlight reel: football players, basketball players, and even a hitter (who couldn’t hit a ball but somehow managed to hit on every girl who crossed his path). Spoiler alert: it didn’t work out with any of them. Why? Because of one undeniable truth: I am not a Bourbon Street hooker. Translation: Their little “I’m a D1 athlete, please sleep with me” routine did not work on me, nor should it work on you.
The WAG Illusion: It’s Giving Cosplay at Best
Let’s talk about the WAG (Wives and Girlfriends of athletes) life, because I know some of y’all think it’s a one-way ticket to a designer-filled dream world. It’s not. Sure, it might start off cute: the games, the jerseys with his number on them, the courtside seats. But let me tell you, sis, that glitter fades fast when the groupies show up, the text responses slow down, and you’re left wondering why you feel like a contestant on The Bachelor.
And this is where some of y’all mess up: you go in guns blazing trying to be “wifey” before you’ve even secured the role. Packing his lunch for away games? Doing his laundry? Playing personal assistant to his schedule? All before you’ve been given the title? Baby, that’s not love—that’s unpaid labor.
Here’s the truth: the only way to make it work with an athlete—or anyone, really—is to start by staying true to yourself. Don’t morph into some knock-off version of a WAG in hopes of impressing him. If he’s worth it, he’ll value you for you.
Success Stories Exist, But…
Let’s keep it real: I’m not saying all athlete relationships are doomed. There are success stories, and I’ve seen them. But those relationships don’t work because the girl played “pick me.” They work because both people respected each other, communicated, and aligned their boundaries.
If you want a real chance at making it work, start as friends. Don’t dive in headfirst trying to lock him down. Get to know him as a person, not as a jersey number. And most importantly, make it clear from day one that you are not the one to play with.
Set the Rules, Don’t Break Yourself
Here’s my advice:
- Establish Boundaries
Decide what you will and won’t tolerate. If he’s making you feel like an option or is too busy for basic communication, let him know you’re out. No debates, no explanations. - Don’t Be a Cosplay WAG
Stop acting like you’re married to him before you even know his middle name. Save the lunch-packing and pep talks for someone who’s fully invested in you. - Never Compromise Who You Are
If you’re naturally outgoing and ambitious, don’t dim your light because he’s insecure or wants you to “stay lowkey.” Be unapologetically you, and the right person will match your energy. - Demand Respect Without Fear
Make it clear from the beginning that you are not here for games. Respect yourself enough to walk away if he’s not meeting your standards.
Why Peace Is the Real MVP
Sure, dating an athlete can come with its perks, but if you’re constantly questioning your worth, your sanity, or your place in his life, it’s not worth it. Peace is priceless, and no courtside seats or clout can replace it.
The thing about athletes (or any high-profile person, honestly) is they’re often surrounded by people who let them get away with bad behavior. Don’t be one of those people. Be the one who walks away with her dignity intact, knowing she’s the real prize.
The Bottom Line
At the end of the day, being with an athlete can either be a beautiful success story or an emotional trainwreck. The difference lies in how you approach it. Stay grounded, stay true to yourself, and never let anyone—athlete or otherwise—make you question your worth.
So, to the girl reading this who’s debating whether to text him back or go to his next game: choose yourself. Because trust me, sis, you’re the star player in your own life, and the only jersey you need is the one with your name on it.
Disclaimer: This post is based on my own experiences and doesn’t reflect the behavior of all athletes. If you’re living your best WAG life with no stress or drama, congrats, babe—this one isn’t about you. 💕
