Among the many reasons one could never be a professional athlete, such as weak genetics, lack of work ethic, or a general disdain for exercise, is the inability to stay motivated by being petty.
It takes effort to be motivated as an athlete. Some treat having a chip on their shoulder as part of their uniform, using perceived slights to fuel their game.
The concept of the "revenge game" has been embraced by sports media, where a player faces their former team. Online posts often discuss this angle, even in amicable team-player separations.
Sometimes, the hype surrounding a revenge game fails to live up to expectations.
Athletes seeking any perceived slight or disrespect to fuel their game like coal in a furnace.
Author's summary: Revenge games fuel athletes.