Athletes are often seen as role models, and for good reason. They typically have outgoing personalities, are highly competitive, and demonstrate immense dedication to their craft.
However, what many people don’t realize is that athletes are also susceptible to developing gambling problems. In fact, research has shown that athletes are three times more likely to develop gambling problems than the general population.
There are a number of reasons why athletes may be more susceptible to gambling problems. For one, they often have a lot of disposable income and access to credit. They may also feel invincible and think they can always win. Additionally, they may become addicted to the thrill of gambling and the high that comes with winning. Best online casino in australia provide help for addiction right on their online platform.
While some athletes are able to keep their gambling under control, others have not been so lucky. Here are 7 athletes who have found themselves in gambling trouble:
1. Gilbert Arenas
In 2010, Arenas was suspended from the NBA for bringing guns into the locker room and allegedly threatening another player over a gambling debt.
2. Javaris Crittenton
In 2011, Crittenton was arrested and charged with murder after he shot and killed a woman who he claimed owed him money from a gambling debt.
3. Jaromir Jagr
The NHL star has been open about his gambling habits, admitting that he’s lost millions of dollars over the years.
4. Floyd Mayweather Jr.
In 2012, Mayweather was ordered to pay $5.6 million to a former business partner after losing a lawsuit alleging that he failed to pay back gambling debts.
5. Tiger Woods
Woods has been open about his struggles with gambling in the past, and in 2009 he admitted to losing upwards of $200 million due to his gambling habits.
6. The Black Sox
Eight members of the Chicago White Sox were banned from baseball for life after they were caught throwing the 1919 World Series. It’s widely believed that they did so because they had gambled on the outcome of the game.
7. Michael Jordan
Jordan is considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time, but even he has found himself in gambling trouble. In 1993, he was fined $5,000 for placing a bet on a golf game. And in 2006, he lost $1.25 million in one night at a casino.
While gambling can be a fun and harmless activity for some people, it’s clear that it can also be a destructive force. These athletes serve as a reminder that anyone can fall victim to gambling addiction. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, there are resources available to help.