Venmo requests and death threats: Heckling in the digital sports betting age

The article discusses the growing issue of online harassment faced by athletes in the digital sports betting age. With the rise of mobile betting apps, fans are increasingly sending players requests for money on platforms like Venmo if they fail to deliver the expected outcomes. In some cases, athletes have even received death threats from disgruntled bettors. This trend highlights the darker side of the sports betting industry, where the anonymity of the internet can embolden individuals to cross ethical boundaries. Athletes are now forced to navigate a landscape where their performance is not only judged by their fans but also by those with financial stakes in the outcome. The article emphasizes the need for better regulation and oversight in the sports betting industry to protect athletes from such unacceptable behavior. It also underscores the importance of addressing the broader issue of online harassment and the impact it can have on the mental well-being of public figures.