I think it’s the insecure competitor that resorts to unsportsmanlike conduct.
They’re not confident they’re going to win on effort and skill alone so they employ dirty tactics.
Furthermore, they have to win. They can’t accept not winning because that means they’ll be a failure.
I think the best resolution to someone saying outrageous things to throw you off your game is to look at the scared little child and smile.
Easier said than done I know.
Thomas Duggan 