The second phrase is closer for me. First of all, athletes represent their country on international competitions, they enhance the prestige of their counrty. Secondly, it is very hard to achieve great results in sports. They need to train hard and regullary and of course athletes live a healthy life. It can be a model for everyone: to go to bed early, not to eat unhealthy food, no alcohol or sigaretes. And in my opinion, their salary and money prizes are appropriate. And also they risk their health on every trainig and every competition.