> You never hear about “starving athletes” I guess is what I mean.

I mean, just because this isn't a trope doesn't mean it doesn't exist. If you know anything about trying to get into pro sports of literally any type, you'll know that it's a lot of sacrifice for a long time. Most athletes who aren't literally the best in the world aren't paid a huge amount, and have to travel a lot to attend events to make that money.

In the US, Congress passed a special law restricting the labor rights of minor league baseball players.