Kurtley Beale: World Rugby's Clown of 2014
It's not easy at the top, but some elite athletes make it harder for themselves with an uncanny habit for bad decision-making. Kurtley Beale is one of those.
In 2014, the Wallabies utility embodied the definition of rugby's biggest clown in all regards, entertaining for the masses en route to helping Waratahs win their maiden Super Rugby title but also showing a much more regrettable side.
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Just to be clear, 2014 wasn't the first year in which Beale may have been nominated for this honour. It's unfortunate that the gifted playmaker's biggest issues are all alcohol-related, having checked into a rehabilitation facility in 2013, per the Daily Mail's Mike Dawes, following a controversy during his Melbourne Rebels tenure.
It was thought that would be the end of his bad-boy days, but this year saw Beale brought back into the national team's fold, only to be axed once more for similar offences.
In fact, the 2014 edition of Beale's thespian drama was arguably worse. In September, Beale had a heated argument with Wallabies business manager Di Patston on a plane to Sao Paulo.
However, it was later revealed by the Daily Telegraph's Ian Payten that Beale had sent a "lewd image" to Patston, leading to his suspension from the squad and a $3,000 fine. The Australian Rugby Union released a chronological recount of the entire debacle.
In turn, Australia coach Ewen McKenzie and Patston—whom he had personally brought into the fold from their time together at Queensland Reds—were sacked. It's safe to suggest Beale's misdemeanour had a hand in fuelling the fires which were admittedly already burning.
In Beale's defence, a slightly less clown-like act was to hear the centre would be donating the $45,000 fine later given to him for the code of conduct breach to a good cause, per Australian radio station ABC NSW:
Nevertheless, these are matters that really shouldn't be befalling a professional player, especially one with Beale's past and whose place in the national team is already so precariously poised.
One would think the motto of "fool me once" might come to the Wallabies' mind after being stung by their controversial star on several occasions, but it appears not to be the case.
Under Michael Cheika's regime, The Telegraph reported in December that not only was the 25-year-old back in for selection, but also the ARU had chosen to extend his deal at what's still a relatively early stage:
Honestly, Beale is a gifted and versatile asset who, if better behaved, could be of major use to the Wallabies, but the bitter truth is that brilliance and madness so often seem to tread a close relationship.
In leading the Waratahs to their 2014 title, we saw Beale at his finest, the brilliant and often gleaming gem who can so often light up a game through his own woven flair. If only we could be assured it will last.
It's a tough job, being rugby's clown of 2014, but somebody has to do it.
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