Archive · 18 Jul 2026
Redefining Masculinity: Athletes and Celebrities Embrace Vulnerability
A lot of famous men like athletes and actors are showing that it's okay to cry and express emotions.
This is changing old ideas about what it means to be a strong man.
People like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have cried after big games, and others like Virat Kohli and Ranveer Singh have talked about their feelings openly.
Experts say that hiding emotions can be bad for mental health, and showing emotions can actually make someone stronger.
This is helping young boys and men feel more comfortable with their feelings and understand that crying doesn't make you weak.
Prominent male figures like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Virat Kohli have publicly displayed emotions, challenging traditional masculinity norms.
Experts argue that suppressing emotions can lead to mental health issues, while expressing them can foster emotional strength.
Public figures are redefining strength by showing vulnerability, encouraging young men to embrace their emotions.
Shabbir Ali believes vulnerability should translate into resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Pullela Gopichand and Abhishek Banerjee advocate for emotional expression as a natural and strong part of being human.
- Who
- Athletes, celebrities, and public figures like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Virat Kohli, Ranveer Singh, and Allu Arjun.
- What
- A shift in societal perceptions of masculinity, with prominent men embracing vulnerability and emotional expression.
- When
- Recent years, with notable examples from the 2022 FIFA World Cup and ongoing discussions in sports and entertainment.
- Where
- Globally, with examples from sports, Bollywood, and Hollywood.
- Why
- To challenge traditional notions of masculinity, promote mental health awareness, and encourage emotional honesty.
- Lionel Messi
- Cried after Argentina's World Cup win, citing personal struggles.
- Cristiano Ronaldo
- Tears after Portugal's World Cup semi-final defeat.
- Virat Kohli
- Opened up about feeling lonely during career lows.
- Ranveer Singh
- Frequently expresses emotions publicly, including tears.
- Allu Arjun
- Often tearful while thanking fans or discussing family.
- Shabbir Ali
- Believes vulnerability should translate into resilience.
- Pullela Gopichand
- Views emotions as a natural part of sport.
- Abhishek Banerjee
- Argues that crying is a sign of strength, not weakness.
- Priyanka Sarkar
- Sports psychologist advocating for emotional expression in men.