Auburn’s Payton Thorne: Bettors Demand Money After Losing Bets

Auburn’s senior quarterback, Payton Thorne, recently revealed that following losses, including Saturday’s game against California, he has been subjected to unusual requests from bettors seeking reimbursements. During an interview on “The Next Round,” Thorne disclosed that individuals have reached out to him via Venmo to demand money back after their betting losses.

With a light-hearted tone, Thorne remarked, “They’re definitely not sending cash. It’s funny. When they lose money, they want their money back. But when they win money on a parlay, no one’s ever sent me any of the money.” His comments came in the wake of a challenging performance in which he threw four interceptions, contributing to a disappointing 21-14 defeat against California.

While Thorne laughed off the requests, the situation points to a serious concern the NCAA is currently addressing. A study conducted by Signify, an artificial intelligence company partnered with the NCAA, revealed that one in three prominent college athletes have received messages from individuals with a vested interest in betting.

In response to the growing issue, several states, including Maryland, Louisiana, Ohio, and Vermont, have implemented regulations at the NCAA’s request. These regulations prohibit sportsbooks from offering prop bets specifically on college players, aiming to protect athletes from the pressure and temptation generated by sports betting.

Professional athletes have also reported similar experiences. PGA golfer Max Homa shared that he receives requests for money through Venmo from bettors multiple times each week. He expressed his frustration, saying, “That gets old,” highlighting the strange intersection between sports performance and gambling.

This trend raises significant questions about the impact of sports betting on college athletics and the pressures faced by student-athletes. As betting becomes increasingly popular, many are concerned about how it affects the integrity of the games and the welfare of the players involved.

In light of the growing relationship between sports and gambling, stakeholders are calling for more comprehensive regulations to protect athletes from undue stress and the potential for exploitation. The NCAA’s proactive measures aim to safeguard college athletes from being targeted by those looking to profit from their performances.

The conversation around sports betting continues to evolve, especially as more states embrace its legalization and as technology makes it easier for bettors to engage with their favorite sports and athletes. As this unfolds, it is crucial for organizations, regulators, and educational institutions to work together to foster an environment that prioritizes the well-being of athletes over financial gain.

The experiences shared by Thorne and Homa illustrate a growing concern in the realm of sports, where the lines between competition and gambling blur. Many athletes, both in college and professional leagues, are grappling with the repercussions of a culture increasingly influenced by betting interests. As the sports landscape changes, maintaining the integrity of the game while ensuring athletes feel secure and supported will be paramount.