I actually like his style -- he goes all-out and risks DQs to try and finish first. It's not like he complains that things are unfair when he gets himself DQed.
Yeah, I don't think that he is the one pushing for all the media hype. I think the hype is what bugs people the most. You're right, he takes risks and tries his best no matter what. I like that when he loses he keeps it in perspective. I gave my mom a lecture about it the other day. She was complaining about his nonchalant attitude when he got 5th. I played college basketball and my folks were always all over me if THEY didn't think I played well. I politely let her have it. It is a race afterall...