Matt Fitzpatrick has condemned the abuse sports stars endure from disgruntled gambling fans, citing the example of England footballer Harry Kane. The English golfer spoke out after the issue resurfaced following Wyndham Clark's US Open victory, with Jordan Spieth suggesting heckling at Shinnecock Hills stemmed from betting losses.
Fitzpatrick's Personal Experience with Gambling Abuse
Fitzpatrick revealed he has received his fair share of abusive messages related to gambling. "You just look at all the messages people get. Footballers, tennis players, you name it, everyone’s getting messages of: Oh, you missed that penalty, you cost me this. Oh, you didn’t make a birdie, cost me this," he said. "I’ve had my fair share. I would say every golfer that’s played a professional tournament has had a message of abuse from someone that is related to gambling."
He noted that searching for a player's name on social media often reveals a torrent of abuse, particularly after poor performances. "You go and type in a player’s name who maybe isn’t playing well, maybe someone who’s favoured to play well, you type the name into Twitter and you’ll just see their name followed by abuse after abuse after abuse," Fitzpatrick added.
Harry Kane Example and Personal Gambling Habits
Fitzpatrick contrasted his own modest betting habits with the abusive behavior of others. "It’s difficult because I’ve had 20 quid on England to win the World Cup, but at the same time, if it doesn’t come in, I’m not going to send a message to Harry Kane and be like: Why did you play rubbish? There’s obviously individuals that have that problem," he said. He clarified that he does not condone gambling, but occasionally places a small bet during major tournaments like the World Cup or Euros.
Impact on Golf and Social Media
Fitzpatrick highlighted the particular vulnerability of golf to betting-related interference. "For me, it’s definitely becoming a problem and the issue is, particularly in golf, it would be very easy to influence a bet, whether it’s you’re shouting on someone’s backswing, shouting on a putting stroke. It’s really easy," he warned. He acknowledged that monitoring such behavior is challenging but stressed it is a growing issue.
The golfer has distanced himself from social media to avoid the negativity. "I don’t do any of my social media anymore. I have my own private accounts elsewhere, but I don’t go looking for anything. I don’t think the social-media companies do a good job of managing that stuff. That’s obviously a bigger conversation," he said. He praised fellow golfer Michael Kim for using social media insightfully but condemned personal attacks as "ridiculous."
Desired Atmosphere in Golf
Fitzpatrick expressed support for a vibrant atmosphere in golf, similar to football, but emphasized the need for respect. "I’m all for the game developing and bringing in different people. I love football. I love the atmosphere of a football match. Playing Harbour Town this year, that’s the atmosphere I want. There’s nothing better," he said. He cited the Ryder Cup as an example of a positive, intense atmosphere that he enjoys, but stressed it should not cross the line into abuse.
