I remember reading about one of the robber barons in the gilded age - a Rockefeller or similar - and it was along the lines of (forgive any misquoting):

"People always commented that although he was a ruthless businessman, how kind and considerate he was in his private life. But isn't that the same as most sportsmen? They are determined to win when competing in their sport, but once off the field are not expected to be the same."