"Gambling is a cancer to society": Andy Roddick criticized after becoming Betway's global ambassador

Tennis News
Saturday, 12 August 2023 at 12:47
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Andy Roddick has come under fire from tennis fans after announcing his new role as global ambassador for online gambling company Betway.
Former world No. 1 Roddick announced his new partnership with the company yesterday, Wednesday, August 9. The American revealed that his role will involve providing expert insights and analysis into some of the biggest tournaments on the ATP and WTA Tours.
Moreover, the 40-year-old will have a column that will be featured on the company's blog site Betway Insider.

Evokes outrage on social media

Roddick made the announcement on X, formerly known as Twitter:
"Really pleased to announce that I’ve become Betway’s new global tennis ambassador. Looking forward to providing my thoughts and insights on the biggest tournaments around the world and to help bring fans closer to the heart of the action," he wrote.
However, the news received a poor reception among tennis fans, with many voicing their disappointment at Roddick and general disapproval of gambling. One fan pointed out that players have sometimes received a lot of abuse from gamblers:
"Ugh. This is disappointing to read. Gambling is a cancer to society and especially in tennis; Borna Coric has deleted his social media due to abuse from gamblers after his loss in Toronto. Oh well, hope the payout was worth it," one wrote.
Meanwhile, another asked why the 2003 US Open champion didn't pursue commentary like many other formal professional players had done:
"Ugh, making money off gambling. Why not just do commentary Andy?" they tweeted.
French tennis player Corentin Moutet also shared their disapproval, writing:
"Money can buy anything."
Roddick defended himself against some of the backlash, writing that he was "Just providing content and analysis. Same as I’ve done before." Furthermore there were a few positive comments, with one writing:
"That is great news! Andy's a amazing asset to the tennis world. Looking forward to it!"

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