American Winners

Charlie Sheen infamously proclaimed that he was the winner. America (and yes this is a generalisation) has a troubled history when it comes to winning. Its losing style was shown in all of its glory at the conclusion of the US Tennis Open when Serena Williams had yet another melt down on her way to losing a Grand Slam title. This time the umpire was ugly – on the inside – for making a correct call about William’s on-court conduct during the match. Obviously a beautiful umpire would have realised that because she is American, playing in America that she should be able to say whatever she wants whenever she wants regardless of the rules. She even brought into question the umpire’s geographical knowledge, reminding her “we are in America, last time we checked.” Surprising Williams did not draw a gun on the umpire declaring her second amendment rights to keep and bear arms - against ugly (on the inside) people.

In 2003 President Bush declared mission accomplished in reference to the war in Iraq, which only leaves the world wondering just what is happening there seven years later. If it is military exercises they are taking their practice VERY seriously. A pre-emptive declaration, or merely recognition that when it comes to wars the US is very good at starting wars but not so good at ending them. World War II was an exception where the US intervention proved to be quite a persuasive to end the conflict. Vietnam, Korea, Iraq (the original and sequel) Afghanistan.... Admittedly the US has declared that some of these were not in fact wars but rather police actions thus evading the question of victory, but you see my point.

Although the broadcasters enjoy international television they do not believe the general population will understand neither the dialogue nor the nuance unless it is performed by American actors with strong New York or Californian accents. In this case they take a ratings winner such as Kath & Kim from Australia or Coupling from America and turn it into a dog’s breakfast.

Excellent segue.

Wilfred is the exception that proves the rule. Interestingly the Australian actor, writer and co-creator Jason Gann remains in the title role and the US version is a hit.

Back to sport. To ensure the US comes out a winner it has limited its World Series Baseball competition to only teams that play originate in the US. Recently Canada was added, barely international. Perhaps Ms Williams could give them all a geography lesson. Unusually the website in proudly spruiking its international diversification declares “World Series travels north” and then discusses Atlanta.

For the record Atlanta is not a country it is the capital city of the state of Georgia (one of seven original Confederate states). Is it any wonder that during her failed attempt to run for Vice President, Sarah Palin declared she was prepared for international diplomacy because she can see Russia from where she lives.

America may well be the home of the brave and land of the free, but the jury is still out on their capacity as winners.