Abstract

In an era of carefully curated public images, athletic autobiographies offer a glimpse into the lives of sports icons beyond the arena. This article examines the autobiographies of two prominent figures in the world of sports, David Beckham and Andre Agassi, to understand how they construct their athletic identities and narratives beyond the playing field. By comparing and contrasting their personal accounts, which transcend the conventional sports memoir, the study delves into the complexities of their public personas, private struggles, and the intersections of sports, celebrity, and personal growth. Through a thematic analysis of Open by Andre Agassi and Both Feet on Ground: An Autobiography by David Beckham, the research explores how these athletes navigate fame, family, and personal challenges, offering insights into the human experience behind the global icons. This comparative study contributes to the understanding of athletic autobiographies as a distinct genre, highlighting the interplay of self-representation, societal expectations, and the enduring impact of sports on personal narratives.