Sports Hype 101: Critical Traits of “Hypegenic” Athletes

Hypegenic? What the hell does that mean and has to do with sports hype?
Well, I allowed myself to come up with this word. It’s a combination of “hype” and “genic”, meaning an athlete who naturally has the traits that create hype and attract media attention—just like someone being “photogenic” means they look great on camera. A hypegenic athlete effortlessly pulls in media coverage, excites fans, and boosts the overall value of their sport or league simply by being themselves.

Information on this page is basis for Wiki Pages: Hype; Hypegenic and Hypegenic Meter.

TL;DR
The article analyzes a number of different researches from different authors and I also share my personal opinions. The final traits are: Results, Accolades, Public Image, Relationships and Cultural Relevance and Timing.
For final results—proceed to Chapter Results and Final List of Sports Hype Traits.

“Why do professional athletes make SO MUCH money?” (Quirk and Fort, 2018). According to the authors, the reasons lie in the entertainment nature of sports, which is not much different from the film or music industries. They argue that “the large revenue in sports is driven by the same factors as in the entertainment industries”—fan interest and the impact of stars on consumers, which enhances their attractiveness to sponsors (Quirk and Fort, 2018).

What Traits Create Sports Hype?

To understand what attracts media attention and helps create sports hype around athletes (or teams, leagues, or even rivalries (derbies)), I had to put together a simple list of traits. This list would help us analyze each case and see if meeting these criteria leads to the desired result—becoming a hypegenic entity in the sports ecosystem, or not. Ultimately, we could also see if being hypegenic increases the overall value of the sports system.

This article will serve as a cornerstone for many future pieces, allowing you, the audience of Play of Values, to understand why I focus on certain traits and how I arrived at this point.

I’ll be conducting a literature review, diving into the work of other authors, and using their findings to develop a final checklist of traits. These will help us determine if a sports entity(-ies) is/are truly hypegenic.

Media Hype and Its Influence on Athletic Performance

This is an amazing article from authors Cynthia M. Frisby (University of Missouri, Columbia, USA) and Wayne Wanta (University of Florida, Gainesville, USA). Their research explored whether media coverage adds additional stress to athletes. While their approach differs from what I’m focusing on, they did identify a valuable set of traits that we can analyze.

Since their research looks at the extra stress hyped-up athletes face, we can actually reverse their findings. After all, the athletes they studied ARE hypegenic. So, the traits they identified show if a sports entity can handle media hype—and if they can, it means these traits are essential for athletes that can lead to sports hype.

If you want to learn how they come up with this list, you can find the article here, meanwhile I will just list out the traits:

• Public Self Consciousness―this refers to the tendency to think about the external or public aspects of the self (Briggs, Cheek, & Buss, 1980);
• Self-Presentation―a theory about how people use both words and body language to show a certain image of themselves to others (Goffman, 1959).
• Self-Esteem―reveals the depth of one’s concern for self-image (Jones & Rhodewalt, 1982);
• Athlete’s Media Use;
• The 4C’s:
  • Concentration―ability to maintain focus;
  • Confidence―believe in one’s abilities;
  • Control―ability to maintain emotional control regardless of distraction;
  • Commitment―ability to continue working to agreed goals.

A Quick Dive into the 4C’s
Mackenzie (1997) identified four essential mental qualities that influence athletic success: concentration, confidence, control, and commitment—known as the “4Cs.” Concentration helps athletes stay focused, ensuring their skills are used effectively. Confidence stems from how an athlete views their ability to achieve their goals; the more confident they are, the more likely they’ll persevere and take ownership of their results. Control is about managing emotions under pressure, which is crucial for performing well. Lastly, commitment is about staying dedicated to long-term goals, despite competing life priorities. Challenges like injury, lack of progress, or media pressure can undermine an athlete’s commitment, leading to performance anxiety.

The Main Dimensions of Sport Personality Traits

Author Reinout E. De Vries conducted a study identifying key personality traits in sports. Similar to the previous example, this study approaches the topic from a psychological perspective, but we can assume that mastering these traits could help an athlete become hypegenic.

Findings

The study selected 321 adjectives describing how someone plays sports, and 555 participants rated themselves on these traits. The analysis revealed six main factors—five related to sports personality and one focused on physical ability:

• Friendly Fairness;
• Resilience;
• Drive;
• Perfectionism;
• Inventiveness;
• Agility.

Additional Research Results

Reinout E. De Vries analyzed other researchers’ work, and two main approaches emerged in understanding sports personality traits: the “generic traits approach” and the “contextualized traits approach.” Although these approaches focus on sports performance and psychology, they are still highly relevant to my research, as they highlight traits that make athletes hypegenic and valuable for generating media attention.

Generic Traits Approach

The generic traits approach examines broad personality traits and their impact on sports preferences, activity levels, and performance. De Vries draws on studies from Eysenck et al. (1982) and Allen et al. (2013), identifying key traits such as:

• Extraversion―Linked to higher engagement in team-based and high-risk sports;
• Conscientiousness―Associated with strong commitment and higher athletic performance;
• Emotional Stability―Important for staying composed in high-pressure environments.

These traits are critical for making an athlete naturally engaging and appealing to fans, which plays a huge role in creating sports hype.

Contextualized Traits Approach

The contextualized traits approach focuses on traits specific to a sports setting, such as how athletes react under pressure. De Vries references Smith et al. (2006) and Gucciardi (2012) to highlight traits like:

• Mental Toughness―The ability to perform well under stress;
• Resilience―The capacity to recover quickly from setbacks;
• Sport Anxiety―Tied to how athletes manage nerves and concentration.

These sports-specific traits are just as crucial in determining whether an athlete can handle the constant media pressure and scrutiny that comes with being hyped. Athletes who exhibit these qualities tend to be better equipped for the spotlight, increasing their value as media-friendly and hypegenic figures.

Personality in Sport: A Comprehensive Review

Allen et al. (2013) provides a great analysis of personalities in sports, and he brings up an interesting point—when the first sport and exercise psychology labs were set up in the early 20th century, habit was seen as a key factor in an athlete’s development and success (Griffith, 1930).

Their research dives deep into the history of personality theory, mentioning even the works of Hippocrates (460-370 BC) and Galen (AD 129-199), and tracing its evolution up to modern theories. They explain how the concept of personality “dimensions” and the hierarchical structure, first proposed by Allport (1927, 1937), is still central to understanding personality today (Barenbaum & Winter, 2008). This is why their work is essential when identifying the traits of a successful athlete.

To sum it all up for our purposes, here are the main traits, identified by various researchers, that we can take away from this work:

• Extraversion―Athletes who are more outgoing and sociable tend to attract media attention.
• Conscientiousness―Linked to dedication and discipline, though lower in high-risk, high-exposure athletes.
• Neuroticism―Lower levels help athletes handle stress and pressure, making them more adaptable in high-stakes situations.
• Agreeableness―Important for maintaining positive team dynamics and media relationships (McCrae & Costa, 2008).
• Openness―This trait reflects an athlete’s willingness to embrace new challenges and experiences.

These traits not only contribute to athletic success but also help athletes handle media attention, making them more hypegenic and able to boost the overall value of their sport.

Understand the Dimensions of Athlete Brand Authenticity

This final article will be closer related to Sports Marketing, as it analyzes Athlete brand.

According to Hasaan, A. & Fişne, M. (2021), The management of an athlete brand is challenging due to the complex nature of athlete career and life. Striving to maintain brand authenticity will promote long-term sustainability of the brand. The purpose of their study was to determine possible factors that contribute to athlete brand authenticity and help athletes to develop their brand more authentically.

Hasaan, A. & Fişne, M. (2021) identified a total of 76 traits from past studies that analyzed the attributes of brand authenticity for various brands. After merging interrelated attributes, the final number of unique attributes was 23. Authors distributed these traits among three major themes: on-field activities, off-field activities and marketing activities of an athlete.

Here’s the final list of the traits they identified:

On-Field Traits

1. Rarity―Being unique, talented, and distinctive on the field (Kucharska et al., 2018; Liao & Ma, 2009).
2. Stability―Consistency and longevity in their performance (Kucharska et al., 2018; Moulard et al., 2015).
3. Morality―Showing honesty and sincerity in their actions (Kucharska & Firgolska, 2018; Moulard et al., 2015).
4. Originality―Standing out by being genuine and real, bringing something fresh to the sport (Liao & Ma, 2009; Rampersad, 2009).
5. Heritage―Maintaining and preserving the legacy of their sport (Fritz et al., 2017; Napoli et al., 2014).
6. Performance―Demonstrating strong commitment and performing at a high level (Preece, 2015; Liao & Ma, 2009).
7. Credibility―Being trustworthy and reliable, both in their game and in how they interact with others (Morhart et al., 2015; Wymer & Akbar, 2017).
8. Integrity―Staying true to themselves and taking responsibility for their brand (Morhart et al., 2015; Liao & Ma, 2009).
9. Icon Status―Becoming a symbol or an icon in their sport, representing more than just their game (Morhart et al., 2015; Fritz et al., 2017).
10. Personality―Having authority, confidence, and a positive image that resonates with fans (Choi et al., 2015; Rampersad, 2009).
11. Passion―Showing passion and enthusiasm for the game, making people want to follow them (Fritz et al., 2017; Preece, 2015).

Off-Field Traits

1. Morality―Upholding moral character and strong relationships outside the sport (Ilicic & Webster, 2015).
2. Naturalness―Being authentic and neutral in public appearances (Akbar & Wymer, 2016; Bruhn et al., 2012).
3. Impression―Managing how they present themselves to the media and the public (Preece, 2015; Greenwell et al., 2017).
4. Physical Attributes―Their looks, image, and overall physical appeal (Grayson & Martinec, 2004; Liao & Ma, 2009).
5. Customers’ Experience―Creating positive memories and nostalgia for fans through interactions (Pattuglia et al., 2015; Beverland, 2009).
6. Heritage―Keeping their off-field activities aligned with the legacy of past iconic athletes (Fritz et al., 2017; Napoli et al., 2014).
7. Integrity―Being honest and socially responsible off the field (Liao & Ma, 2009; Morhart et al., 2015).
8. Icon―Achieving a social icon status, representing their country or community (Fritz et al., 2017).
9. Personality―Having charisma and appeal that makes them relatable and recognizable to fans (Ilicic & Webster, 2016).
10. Aesthetics―showing love for their craft and maintaining an appealing style that draws attention (Beverland, 2009).
11. Sustainability―Caring about the environment and taking part in social causes (Choi et al., 2015; Fritz et al., 2017).
12. Behaviour―Maintaining a poised and respectful attitude in public, setting an example for others (Kernis & Goldman, 2006; Ilicic et al., 2016).

Athlete Brand Authenticity via Marketing Activities

Athlete marketing activities also play a key role in how athletes build their brand authenticity. Here are the critical traits related to marketing efforts:

1. Naturalness―Authenticity in behavior and communication (Akbar & Wymer, 2016; Bruhn et al., 2012).
2. Impression―How they present themselves through media and public appearances (Preece, 2015; Greenwell et al., 2017).
3. Commercialization―Their ability to reach global markets and use effective marketing techniques (Preece, 2015; Bruhn et al., 2012).
4. Brand Congruency―How well their personal brand aligns with fans’ self-image and values (Fritz et al., 2017; Rampersad, 2009).
5. Sustainability―Efforts to engage in social responsibility and environmental causes (Choi et al., 2015; Fritz et al., 2017).
6. Visibility―Public awareness, marketing strategies, and social media presence (Ilicic & Webster, 2015; Kernis & Goldman, 2006).
7. Brand Clarity―How clear and consistent their messaging is across various platforms (Fritz et al., 2017; Morhart et al., 2015).

Revisions

This part is dedicated to later edits of this article to add additional traits that haven’t been identified in previously analyzed articles, but are crucial for building a sports hype around an athlete (or other sports ecosystem entities). So, this part of the article can constantly change.

Last update: 2024 Oct. 6

Sports Rivalries

After writing about Bird vs Magic, it became apparent that creating a sports rivalry is extremely important when building sports hype. Here’s a separate article about rivalries. Also, to see how rivalries can elevate sport, you can see at Ronaldo vs Messi, or at up and coming rivalry of top women-basketball prospects Caitlin Clark vs Angel Reese.

Interacting with Public Figures from Non-Sports World

Dennis Rodman & Carmen Electra; David Beckham & Posh Spice (Victoria Beckham); Travis Kelce & Taylor Swift… Many of these examples when athletes engage in relationships with public personas from mainstream culture add to the hype and their fame. This also helps growing the ecosystem surrounding the sports entity. Update (November 6, 2024): Here’s an article on Athlete Relationships with Mainstream Celebrities that proves how dating celebrities is important for being hypegenic.

Final List of Sports Hype Traits

Based on the traits that overlap, along with my own research and experience, it’s clear that to build real sports hype, an athlete (or any sports ecosystem entity) needs to show consistent (or at least promising) Results. With that, public recognition, or Accolades, have to follow. But it’s not just about performance—an athlete has to create a positive Public Image too. As a cherry on top, their Relationships and Cultural Relevance (Expanding Reach) play a huge part in pushing that hype even further. Finally, I believe that in many instances none of these traits would’ve mattered if it wasn’t for the Timing. Let me break down what we’ll be looking at every time we turn on the hypegenic-meter.

Results

These traits drive an athlete’s ability to perform at a high level, which is the foundation of building hype. Without results, media attention and fan engagement can quickly fade.

• Conscientiousness—Athletes who show discipline, focus, and consistency in their performance keep the media and fans invested over time (De Vries, 2020).
• Resilience—The ability to bounce back from setbacks is key to maintaining a strong performance and keeps the narrative alive about their “comeback” stories (Gucciardi, 2012).
• Mental Toughness—Excelling under pressure is critical for delivering results during high-stakes moments, such as finals or intense rivalries (Smith et al., 2006).
• Confidence—Believing in their own abilities allows athletes to push through tough situations, contributing to strong, consistent results (Mackenzie, 1997).
• (Personal) Being a Highlight-Reel—whether it’s clutch shots, incredible dunks, or doing something out-of-the-ordinary—creating constant memorable moments can put you on the map, even if you’re not great at everything else.

Accolades

This category focuses on traits that help athletes build their reputation through public and official recognition, whether through awards, championships, or iconic status.

• Icon Status—Becoming a symbol of a sport or representing something larger than themselves ensures athletes gain recognition far beyond their achievements, making them legendary (Hasaan & Fişne, 2021).
• Stability—Longevity and consistency in their career help athletes maintain relevance and keep the hype going as they gather more accolades (Kucharska et al., 2018).
• (Personal) Awards—since most of the research focused on athletes from a psychological perspective, awards didn’t really get much attention. But as I dive deeper into these topics, I hope to find studies that support this trait, which I’ve added to the list.

Public Image

Traits under this category highlight the importance of how athletes present themselves publicly, shaping their image in the media and in the eyes of fans.

• Extraversion—Outgoing and sociable athletes naturally attract more attention and engage better with fans and the media (Allen et al., 2013).
• Personality—A strong, charismatic personality helps athletes build a relatable, positive image, which keeps them in the public eye (Choi et al., 2015).
• Integrity—Staying true to themselves and showing responsibility both on and off the field builds trust with fans and sponsors, contributing to a stronger public image (Morhart et al., 2015).
• Impression Management—Athletes who manage how they present themselves, especially on social media, can significantly enhance their brand and maintain a positive public image (Preece, 2015).
• (Personal) Love-It/Hate-It character—I’m including this because I see it as the pinnacle of public image. Think of people like Dennis Rodman, Conor McGregor, Zlatan Ibrahimović—they all have those polarizing personas. You either love them or hate them, but either way, you definitely have an opinion about them.

Relationships and Cultural Relevance

Athletes who extend their influence beyond sports and into broader cultural contexts through rivalries or celebrity connections build more lasting and widespread hype. As of October, 2024 all of these traits are added based on my personal opinion, but I hope to find studies that support these traits in the future.

• Rivalries—High-profile rivalries, like Bird vs Magic, amplify media attention and create storylines that transcend the sport itself. Rivalries engage fans and keep the hype alive. Here’s a deep-dive into rivalries. Also check, Rivalry Meter.
• (Personal-Proved) Mainstream Celebrity Relationships—Athletes who are connected to mainstream culture (e.g., Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift) gain additional media attention, boosting their public image beyond the sports world. EDIT (2024 Oct. 6): Proved by Research.
• (Personal) Brand Collaborations—Athletes are associated with major brands, who see the athlete’s value and are willing to use their own brand to promote this person.
• (Personal) Cross-Industry Impact—Athletes who are successful across multiple industries expand their cultural reach. Like Shaquille O’Neal who got into entertainment, acting in movies or entrepreneurship.
• (Personal) Playing For a Historic (Big Market) Team—Athletes who play for big franchises, or teams in big markets, or places that have had iconic players, will get an additional recognition and a better chance to be more hyped.

(Personal) Timing

How many times have you heard someone say their success was all about being at the right place, at the right time? No matter how many traits we mention, for a lot of athletes, none of it would matter without the right timing. Whether it’s a generational shift, social changes, or just being in the right spot when the opportunity comes—it’s all about timing.

If LeBron had come up during the Jordan era, when the NBA wasn’t looking for a new face, would he have been as hyped? Same thing with guys like Tom Brady—if he hadn’t stepped in for an injured Drew Bledsoe, would we be talking about him as the GOAT? Or think about Steph Curry, rising just as the game moved towards advanced analytics and a focus on three-point shooting. Even Dennis Rodman, with his unique style and attitude, fit perfectly into a time when the NBA was embracing bold personalities. Or currently, think how well have stars aligned for WNBA and Caitlin Clark, who has come up during the best possible time for women’s basketball.

Meanwhile, someone like Lionel Messi, who almost left Barcelona as a kid due to growth hormone issues, was lucky to end up in a club willing to invest in him at the right time.

At the end of the day, timing can be the hidden key that unlocks everything for a hypegenic athlete.

The Hypegenic Meter!

Now, as we have all the paramters, let’s start our Hypegenic Meter for the first time!

To make this more interesting, I’ll pick a few athletes who, in my opinion, are some of the best at generating sports hype, but at the same time, were not as big as some other stars in their sports and we’ll see if they tick all the boxes.

Let’s start with a more unique example—Dennis Rodman, then NFL legend Rob “Gronk” Gronkowski, David Beckham, an athlete who’s not a team-sports player, but was an absolute icon – Usain Bolt. AND for the GOLDEN STANDARD we will pick Michael Jordan.

Note: The “Hypegenic Meter” evaluation is done with trained AI.

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Dennis Rodman

Category	Trait	Score (0–10)	Description
Results	Conscientiousness	6	Known for his intense focus on defense and rebounding, though consistency was affected by off-court issues.
	Resilience	8	Overcame personal challenges and criticism, maintaining relevance in the NBA through tenacity and skill.
	Mental Toughness	8	Showed toughness in high-stakes moments, particularly with the Bulls, but was sometimes distracted by personal matters.
	Confidence	10	Exceptionally confident, embracing his role as a defensive anchor and fierce competitor.
	Highlight-Reel	9	Known for memorable, eye-catching moments and unique play style, especially in high-profile games.
Accolades	Icon Status	9	Known as an iconic figure in basketball for his unique personality and distinct playing style.
	Stability	6	Career marked by frequent team changes and personal controversies, impacting his long-term stability.
	Awards	8	Decorated with multiple NBA championships and Defensive Player of the Year awards, establishing his impact.
Public Image	Extraversion	10	Extremely outgoing and sociable, known for his flamboyant lifestyle and constant media presence.
	Personality	10	Charismatic and bold, with a distinctive personality that captivated fans and media alike.
	Integrity	5	Authentically himself, though often clashed with traditional sports values and professionalism.
	Impression Management	9	Skillfully managed his public image, staying relevant through bold, unique behavior and public stunts.
	Love-It/Hate-It Character	10	Highly polarizing, with a personality that drew both admiration and criticism from fans and media.
Relationships & Cultural Relevance	Rivalries	7	Known for intense on-court clashes, especially with players like Karl Malone, though rivalries didn’t fully define his career.
	Celebrity Relationships	10	High-profile relationships, including with Madonna, Carmen Electra, Cindy Crawford boosted his media profile and crossover appeal.
	Brand Collaborations	6	Limited major endorsements, though he maintained a recognizable personal brand due to his image.
	Cross-Industry Impact	9	Expanded into wrestling and reality TV, extending his influence beyond basketball.
	Historic Team Affiliation	10	Played with the iconic 1990s Chicago Bulls, elevating his status through their championship success.
Timing	Timing	10	Rose to prominence during a period when the NBA embraced bold personalities, perfectly aligning with his image.

HYPEGENIC METER: EXCELLENT.
Total Points: 160/190
Final Score (Percentage): 84.2%.

Summary: Dennis Rodman is a highly hypegenic figure due to his bold personality, exceptional defensive skills, and unique media presence. His flamboyant lifestyle, high-profile relationships, and contributions with the Chicago Bulls made him a standout figure in sports and popular culture. Although his career stability and traditional accolades were limited, his crossover impact and polarizing persona have left a lasting legacy in and beyond basketball.

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Rob “Gronk” Gronkowski

Category	Trait	Score (0–10)	Description
Results	Conscientiousness	8	Known for rigorous training and commitment despite his playful personality, although injuries affected consistency.
	Resilience	9	Recovered from multiple significant injuries, consistently returning to high performance.
	Mental Toughness	8	Showed mental strength under pressure in key games, though occasional off-field distractions emerged.
	Confidence	10	Exceptionally confident, bringing energy and a larger-than-life presence on the field.
	Highlight-Reel	10	Known for memorable, game-changing plays and clutch touchdowns, making him a constant highlight figure.
Accolades	Icon Status	9	Achieved icon status in the NFL as one of the greatest tight ends, widely recognized in and beyond football.
	Stability	7	Displayed consistency in performance with the Patriots, though frequent injuries limited long-term stability.
	Awards	8	Decorated with multiple Pro Bowl selections and Super Bowl championships, solidifying his legacy.
Public Image	Extraversion	10	Highly outgoing and sociable, his energetic personality keeps fans and media engaged.
	Personality	10	Known for his charismatic, fun-loving personality, which resonates strongly with fans and media.
	Integrity	8	Maintained a positive image, respected for his authenticity and genuine love for the game.
	Impression Management	9	Carefully managed his brand, balancing his playful persona with professionalism where needed.
	Love-It/Hate-It Character	8	Generally beloved, though his carefree nature occasionally polarized more traditional fans.
Relationships & Cultural Relevance	Rivalries	5	Known more for his play than rivalries; his popularity stemmed from talent rather than specific competitive clashes.
	Celebrity Relationships	8	Known for high-profile social connections and appearances in entertainment, adding to his fame.
	Brand Collaborations	9	Numerous endorsement deals with major brands like Dunkin’ and Tide, reinforcing his marketability.
	Cross-Industry Impact	8	Expanded into media and entertainment, including appearances in commercials and even wrestling.
	Historic Team Affiliation	10	Played a critical role for the Patriots, one of the NFL’s most successful franchises, enhancing his legacy.
Timing	Timing	10	Rose to fame during a period of NFL growth and social media expansion, enhancing his visibility and influence.

HYPEGENIC METER: EXCELLENT.
Total Points: 164/190
Final Score (Percentage): 86.3%.

Summary: Rob Gronkowski is an excellent hypegenic athlete, widely recognized for his athleticism, memorable plays, and charismatic personality. His playful nature, endorsements, and cross-industry appeal have established him as one of the NFL’s most marketable figures. While his rivalries weren’t as prominent, his success with the Patriots, combined with a strong media presence, solidified his legacy in and beyond football.

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David Beckham

Category	Trait	Score (0–10)	Description
Results	Conscientiousness	9	Known for dedication to training, maintaining peak fitness and performance throughout his career.
	Resilience	9	Overcame setbacks and injuries, adapting his playstyle to stay relevant in top-tier leagues.
	Mental Toughness	9	Displayed mental strength, especially under pressure in high-stakes matches and criticism.
	Confidence	10	Highly confident, performing consistently in critical moments, especially with free kicks.
	Highlight-Reel	10	Known for iconic goals, particularly his bending free-kicks, creating unforgettable moments.
Accolades	Icon Status	10	Achieved global icon status, transcending football to become a cultural phenomenon.
	Stability	10	Demonstrated longevity and consistency at the highest level, playing successfully for top clubs over two decades.
	Awards	8	Decorated with league titles and cup wins, though lacking a World Cup or Ballon d’Or, slightly limiting his awards profile.
Public Image	Extraversion	10	Charismatic and naturally engaging, Beckham cultivated a strong media presence and fan connection.
	Personality	10	Known for his charm, relatability, and professional image, appealing to a diverse fan base.
	Integrity	9	Maintained a positive, genuine image, respected for his professionalism both on and off the field.
	Impression Management	10	Masterfully managed his public image, balancing his roles as athlete, fashion icon, and businessman.
	Love-It/Hate-It Character	7	Generally beloved, though his high-profile lifestyle and media presence attracted mixed opinions.
Relationships & Cultural Relevance	Rivalries	6	Not defined by fierce rivalries; known more for his skill and sportsmanship than competitive clashes.
	Celebrity Relationships	10	Married to Victoria Beckham, forming one of the most famous celebrity couples, which boosted his fame.
	Brand Collaborations	10	Partnered with major global brands like Adidas and Pepsi, solidifying his brand across industries.
	Cross-Industry Impact	10	Expanded his influence into fashion, business, and media, building a brand that endures beyond football.
	Historic Team Affiliation	10	Played for iconic clubs like Manchester United, Real Madrid, and LA Galaxy, enhancing his legacy and global reach.
Timing	Timing	10	Rose to prominence as football’s global popularity surged, maximizing his exposure and appeal.

HYPEGENIC METER: LEGENDARY.
Total Points: 177/190
Final Score (Percentage): 93.2%

Summary: David Beckham is a legendary hypegenic figure, known for his excellence on the field and his extensive impact beyond football. His unmatched ability to blend athletic skill, media presence, and fashion sense helped him create a brand that resonates globally. Although he wasn’t driven by fierce rivalries, his relationships, brand partnerships, and cross-industry ventures have solidified his status as a cultural icon with a legacy that extends far beyond the pitch.

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Usain Bolt

Category	Trait	Score (0–10)	Description
Results	Conscientiousness	9	Known for disciplined training and commitment, despite his playful demeanor.
	Resilience	8	Overcame injuries and setbacks, particularly as he maintained peak performance over several years.
	Mental Toughness	10	Exhibited remarkable mental resilience in high-stakes Olympic finals and world championships.
	Confidence	10	Exceptionally confident, embracing his “fastest man alive” persona on and off the track.
	Highlight-Reel	10	Known for record-breaking sprints and iconic celebrations, becoming a constant highlight figure.
Accolades	Icon Status	10	Achieved global icon status as the greatest sprinter of all time.
	Stability	8	Sustained a highly consistent career until retirement, though injuries became a factor in later years.
	Awards	10	Highly decorated with multiple Olympic and World Championship titles, the pinnacle of athletic accolades.
Public Image	Extraversion	10	Naturally extroverted, Bolt’s charisma and humor endeared him to fans and media worldwide.
	Personality	10	Known for his lively, humorous personality, Bolt captured the public’s attention and admiration.
	Integrity	9	Maintained a positive image, respected for his sportsmanship and humility despite his dominance.
	Impression Management	9	Effectively managed his brand, staying relevant through appearances and social media.
	Love-It/Hate-It Character	8	Generally adored, though his dominance occasionally attracted mixed views from competitors.
Relationships & Cultural Relevance	Rivalries	6	Known more for his speed than rivalries, though his clashes with fellow sprinters like Justin Gatlin drew media attention.
	Celebrity Relationships	7	Limited involvement with celebrity figures outside of athletics, focusing more on personal branding.
	Brand Collaborations	10	Partnered with major global brands like Puma and Gatorade, amplifying his worldwide recognition.
	Cross-Industry Impact	8	Expanded into entertainment, media, and even a brief soccer stint, broadening his cultural reach.
	Historic Team Affiliation	7	While not team-affiliated, his status as an Olympic athlete connected him to Jamaica’s athletic legacy.
Timing	Timing	10	Entered the spotlight as social media rose, enhancing his reach and the impact of his achievements.

HYPEGENIC METER: EXCELLENT.
Total Points: 169/190
Final Score (Percentage): 89.0%

Summary: Usain Bolt is highly hypegenic, becoming an iconic figure in global sports through his record-breaking performances and charismatic personality. Known as “the fastest man alive,” his confidence and highlight-reel moments captivated audiences worldwide. Though he lacked extensive rivalries and celebrity relationships, his brand partnerships and strategic timing solidified his legacy as a universally admired sports figure. Although, personally, I’d consider him legendary, but based on the traits, I see why falls just off short.

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Michael Jordan

Category	Trait	Score (0–10)	Description
Results	Conscientiousness	10	Known for intense discipline, work ethic, and unparalleled commitment to his craft.
	Resilience	10	Overcame setbacks, including a brief retirement, returning to win three more NBA championships.
	Mental Toughness	10	Exhibited incredible focus and mental strength, thriving under immense pressure in playoffs and finals.
	Confidence	10	Embodied supreme confidence, unshakable belief in his abilities, especially in clutch situations.
	Highlight-Reel	10	Known for iconic, memorable moments, from game-winning shots to gravity-defying dunks.
Accolades	Icon Status	10	Global icon who transcended basketball to become a cultural phenomenon and inspiration worldwide.
	Stability	10	Consistently performed at a high level throughout his career, achieving stability and longevity.
	Awards	10	Highly decorated with 6 NBA championships, 5 MVPs, and numerous other accolades, solidifying his legendary status.
Public Image	Extraversion	9	Known for his charisma and ability to connect with fans, though often focused on competitive drive.
	Personality	10	Possessed a compelling, competitive personality that captivated fans and media alike.
	Integrity	9	Generally respected for his dedication and professionalism, though his competitive nature was polarizing.
	Impression Management	10	Effectively managed his image through strategic brand partnerships, including the iconic Jordan Brand.
	Love-It/Hate-It Character	10	While admired by many, his competitive intensity led to a polarizing, love-him-or-hate-him aura.
Relationships & Cultural Relevance	Rivalries	10	Defined his era with high-profile rivalries (e.g., Magic Johnson, Isiah Thomas), fueling NBA excitement.
	Celebrity Relationships	10	Connected to notable public figures and athletes, public friendships with the most notable celebrities in the world.
	Brand Collaborations	10	Revolutionized athlete endorsements with Nike, creating the Jordan Brand, which remains iconic.
	Cross-Industry Impact	10	Expanded into entertainment with Space Jam, and ventured into business ownership and investments.
	Historic Team Affiliation	10	Key figure for the Chicago Bulls, cementing their place as an iconic franchise in NBA history.
Timing	Timing	10	Emerged at the perfect moment as the NBA was expanding globally, allowing him to reach an unparalleled level of fame.

HYPEGENIC METER: LEGENDARY.
Total Points: 188/190
Final Score (Percentage): 98.9%

Summary: Michael Jordan is nearly the epitome of a hypegenic athlete, achieving legendary status through unmatched on-court success, iconic brand collaborations, and cultural impact. His intensity, rivalries, and global appeal created an enduring legacy in sports and popular culture. He’s considered as one of the GOATs of the sports.

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Levels Break-Down

0–49: Bad. These athletes lack the traits that build lasting hype or media appeal. Scores in this range reflect a lack of consistency, minimal accolades, limited public image or cultural relevance, and no timing advantage. Their presence in the media is either neutral or negative, and they do not resonate widely with fans. Think of: Kwame Brown (Basketball); Andrea Bargnani (Basketball).

50–64: Mediocre. Athletes in this range may show potential in certain areas but generally lack the overall traits needed to build significant hype. While they might have some recognition or success, they often fall short on consistency, marketability, or strong cultural impact. They may have a positive yet limited following and influence. Think of: Lamar Odom (Basketball), Jeremy Lin (Basketball), Mario Balotelli (Soccer).

65–79: Good. Athletes with scores here possess recognizable hype appeal and several strong traits. They likely have a solid public image, respectable career stats, and moderate cultural relevance, although they may fall short in areas like consistency, media engagement, or cross-industry impact. These athletes are well-liked, attract some media attention, and have marketable potential. Think of: Klay Thompson (Basketball), Anna Kournikova (Tennis).

80–89: Excellent. This score reflects athletes who are widely known, highly marketable, and have a strong public presence. They display a blend of performance success, a compelling image, and strong brand associations. They might lack only one or two traits keeping them from reaching the highest hypegenic level, but they’re cultural icons remembered well beyond their sport. Think of: Giannis Antetokounmpo (Basketball), Neymar Jr. (Soccer).

90–100: Legendary. Reserved for athletes who define or reshape their sport and culture. These athletes not only dominate their field with remarkable performance and consistency but also extend their influence globally, transcending sports. They have sustained impact, iconic status, and embody the qualities of both a superstar and cultural icon, resonating across generations and industries. Think of: Michael Jordan (Basketball), Cristiano Ronaldo (Soccer), Serena Williams (Tennis).

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Wanna Read Something More?

• The Top Ten Most Hyped Athletes of All Time;
• Pop Culture is Driving Demand for Sporting Events Now More Than Ever;
• How Dennis Rodman Transformed Culture by Teaching Us to Buck Norms;
• Gronk Was More Complicated Than He Seemed—and That’s What Made Him Great;
• In a Few Short Years, There Was Just So Much Gronk.

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CITATION
Bakanauskas, P. (2024, October 25). Sports Hype 101: Critical Traits of “Hypegenic” Athletes. Play of Values. https://playofvalues.com/creating-sports-hype-hypegenic-athlete/

IN-TEXT CITATION: (Bakanauskas, 2024)

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