65 Val
To answer your questions:
I'm not a spectator for any sport. If I can't play I don't want to watch. There's a lot more to life than parking your *** in front of the TV watching someone else having fun and making a ****-ton more money than you ever will. My hobby keeps me busy.
Yes, the almighty dollar rules everything. Your heroes worship the $$$$ and that is about all. They don't compete for your entertainment. They want to retire early with a lot of cash.
Do I sound cynical? You bet!!!