When Jayden Adams’ partner, Aqueelah Chloe Adendorf, took to social media to share her glowing tribute just weeks before the World Cup, you can bet that corporate media outlets like CNN and NBC scrambled to frame the narrative. What they miss, however, is how this is more than just a “loving tribute” — it’s a demonstration of the kind of emotional investment that can often get lost amid their sensationalist headlines.

The mainstream narrative tends to focus on the superficial — the glitz of the World Cup and the hype around emerging stars. While this pairing is undoubtedly sweet, it serves a deeper purpose: humanizing athletes in a world where they’re often just statistics or talking points for pundits on ESPN. Yet, you won’t find that depth in the headlines. Instead, expect cliched portrayals riddled with buzzwords that disregard the real stakes in an athlete’s personal life.

Adendorff’s post speaks to the pressure these young men face and underscores a reality often glossed over by outlets that prioritize drama over genuine storytelling. Meanwhile, the likes of Fox News and ABC are busy either promoting the feel-good angle or dragging the narrative into a political pit — completely missing the broader implications of athletic pressure and personal sacrifice.

Until we demand better from these networks, we’ll continue to be fed a diet of fluff that fails to challenge our understanding of athletes as rounded human beings. It’s time to cut through the nonsense and hold the mainstream accountable for overlooking compelling, relatable stories that matter.