Well, under normal circumstances, that analogy would be comparable. But, in general, athletes don't make personal attacks or resort to corrupt activities in order to further their careers. And certainly not at the general public's expense. They just compete in sporting events.
There's another distinction people miss when likening politics to sports -- an athletic competition is meant to be for recreation and entertainment. Politics and implementing public policy actually affects people's lives in tangible ways.
Politics is NOT the same as team sports.