I definitely think that professional athletes should not only be able to work hard and have skills in that particular sport, but they should also be a roll model for other people. If this player gave up during a game, his fans would think that it would be okay to give up, too. As an athlete, it's your responsibility to have a  good influence on your fans. People looking for athletes to join their team should not only look for athletic ability, but their attitude as well. Jackie Robinson was chosen for the Brooklyn Dodgers not just because of his athletic ability, but because he had a great attitude and was able to stand up against prejudice against him.