Yep, there's also a bit of delusion going on in the fan's view of a sportsman and, to a lesser degree, sport (at the professional,level).
It's a job and a business. Sure, athletes love their sport (wouldn't do it otherwise presumably) but do they really care about the badge on their shirt? Without doubt, they see representing their national team as an honour but is that pride or simply a measure of personal achievement? I'm not being critical BTW, I would understand it.
Patriotism and sport is mixed up emotions. I recognise it in myself. I want my fave to play/compete well, with ability and style (and a myriad of other things besides probably) but I also want them to win. The two desires are often at odds.
If I watch something and don't have a loyalty then it can be very enjoyable indeed. A neutral appreciating the talent on display. In that context, I'm not overly interested in the plucky contender trailing the field. No interest in SA dicking USA 64-0 or whatever it was. I'm not saying that they shouldn't be there, I can see that they want to be, but I have little interest in watching it.