Win.

It’s the goal that millions of athletes and their fans across the world share as they pursue victory in an athletic event. Winning is the most important thing, we are taught. Our emotions are invested in the moment. We live and die on the edge, players and fans alike.

And yet, that competitive attitude can backfire, when not aligned properly.

I've always been a fan of tennis, but, when I watched the U.S. Open this past week, I was struck by one player in particular.