Players today moan about the number of games, but when you're young, you can't play enough.
George BestRead
They'll forget all the rubbish when I've gone, and they'll remember the football. If only one person thinks I'm the best player in the world, that's good enough for me.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Recognition may fade, but excellence in one's craft endures. Personal validation matters more than public perception.
In this quote, George Best reflects on the transient nature of fame and recognition, suggesting that while people might forget the negative aspects of a person's reputation, they will remember the greatness of their contributions, particularly in sports. He emphasizes that personal satisfaction and the belief in one's own abilities are far more important than the opinions of others, underscoring the value of self-appreciation over external validation.
Themes
FootballSuccessSelf-WorthExcellenceRecognition
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech to young athletes about focusing on their personal goals rather than external recognition.
More from George Best
All quotes βIf I had to choose between dribbling past 5 players and scoring from 40 yards at Anfield or shagging miss world, it'd be a hard choice. Thankfully, i've done both
George BestRead
I spent a lot of money on booze, birds and fast cars. The rest I just squandered.
George BestRead
If you'd given me the choice of going out and beating four men and smashing a goal in from thirty yards against Liverpool or going to bed with Miss World, it would have been a difficult choice. Luckily, I had both.
George BestRead
I'm OK. Much better than on other occasions. It's true that I've made lots of mistakes but I've never tried to bother anyone. I want to stay alive, preferably in peace, without seeing every one of my mistakes in the papers, and on many occasions, even stories that are lies.
George BestRead
Drink is the only opponent I have been unable to beat.
George BestRead
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