Elina Svitolina Speaks Out on Gambling Criticism: “They Lose Money, Then Attack Me”
June 24, 2025 | Updated 10:45 AM UTC
Elina Svitolina, the Ukrainian tennis star, has publicly addressed the growing issue of online gambling criticism targeting athletes, stating that “they lose money, then attack me” in a rare interview ahead of Wimbledon. Her comments come as the tennis world grapples with rising tensions between players and online gambling platforms over perceived unfair targeting and misinformation campaigns.
Why Svitolina Is Speaking Out Now
Svitolina’s remarks, shared exclusively with Archysport, follow a pattern of online harassment she says has intensified since her 2023 Wimbledon title. “When you win, they say you’re lucky. When you lose, they say you’re cheating,” she explained. “It’s not about the game anymore—it’s about their money.”
According to ITF statistics, Svitolina has been among the top 10 most targeted players on social media for betting-related discussions in the past year, alongside Naomi Osaka and Carlos Alcaraz. The ITF has not yet commented on the matter, but sources close to the organization confirm they are monitoring the situation.
How Online Gambling Is Changing Tennis
The issue extends beyond Svitolina. A 2024 study by the Betfair Sportsbook found that 68% of tennis fans engage with betting content on social media, up from 42% in 2020. Meanwhile, the All England Club has seen a 30% increase in complaints related to betting-related harassment since 2023.
Svitolina’s frustration stems from what she describes as a “double standard.” “If a player is doing well, they blame it on luck. If they’re struggling, they say it’s because of doping or corruption,” she said. “It’s not about the sport—it’s about their own losses.”
What Wimbledon Means for Players Under Fire
With Wimbledon set to begin on July 1, 2025, the pressure on players to perform—and the backlash they face—is expected to intensify. The tournament has historically been a battleground for mental resilience, but this year, the added layer of online scrutiny adds a new dimension.
In a separate interview with BBC Sport, a Wimbledon spokesperson declined to comment on specific cases but acknowledged the challenge: “We take these issues seriously and work closely with players and governing bodies to ensure a safe environment.”
Svitolina, who will compete in the women’s singles, has not ruled out legal action against platforms she believes have targeted her unfairly. “I won’t stay silent anymore,” she said. “If they want to bet, that’s their choice. But they shouldn’t ruin my career because of it.”
How Players Are Responding to the Pressure
Svitolina is not alone in her concerns. Other top players, including ATP Tour stars like Jannik Sinner and Iga Świątek, have also spoken about the mental toll of online gambling criticism. Świątek told ESPN in May that she now avoids social media entirely during tournaments to focus on her game.
Meanwhile, the WTA has introduced new guidelines for players, encouraging them to report harassment and seek support. However, critics argue more needs to be done to address the root cause: the algorithms that amplify betting-related content.
What’s Next for Svitolina and Wimbledon
Svitolina’s first-round match at Wimbledon is scheduled for July 1 at 11:00 AM BST (10:00 AM UTC). She will face WTA No. 100 Anna Kalinskaya, a player known for her aggressive baseline game.
Beyond the court, Svitolina’s comments have sparked a broader conversation about the intersection of sports, gambling, and mental health. The Mental Health Foundation has called for greater awareness, noting that athletes face unique pressures in the digital age.
For now, Svitolina remains focused on her game. “I’m here to play tennis,” she said. “The rest is noise.”
Follow Archysport for live updates from Wimbledon and more insights into the mental challenges facing today’s athletes. Share your thoughts in the comments below—how should the tennis world address this growing issue?
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