The only significant problem with athletes continuously living in the spotlight is their propensity to be under a microscope, especially when they do something wrong. But when the press and fans all decidedly turn against a player after an incident, earning respect back can be tough.
And even the most popular of athletes are prone to criticism, if not more likely to be cast in a dark shadow amidst a bit of controversy. Some of the greatest have had to overcome adversity, but others were less fortunate and remained tainted. These are the most controversial athletes.