Gamblers could be banned for social media reactions

Australia’s responsible wagering association is pushing for bans for bettors who abuse major athletes after losing bets.

Australia.- After several rugby stars sais they had been subject to threats on social media, Responsible Wagering Australia (RWA) is taking action and looking to ban punters who abuse sports players on social media.   

Melbourne Storm’s Ryan Papenhuyzen and AFL’s Brisbane Lions’ Mitch Robinson were two of the athletes to speak out on the issue. Western Bulldogs’ Josh Bruce and Adelaide’s Taylor Walker have also being harassed by gamblers who lost bets.

The RWA contacted Australia’s two major codes to inform them they would bar any punters identified as abusing or threatening athletes on social media.

The move was also endorsed by ARL Commission boss Peter V’landys, who said jockeys and trainers had faced the same kind of internet abuse.

According to The Sydney Morning Herald, the wagering industry said it would now show zero-tolerance on this type of harassment, and would suspend accounts linked to people who engaged abusive behaviour on social media. Operators said they will work with professional sporting codes and police to track down culprits.