Matt Fitzpatrick has voiced his concerns regarding the toxic behavior of sports bettors in the professional golf realm.
Fitzpatrick has returned to his homeland for the 154th Open Championship, which kicks off tomorrow (July 16) and continues until Sunday (July 20). As a local favorite at Royal Birkdale, the Sheffield native faces heavy expectations, with betting odds set at +1750 (DraftKings) for him to claim the prestigious Claret Jug.
Although celebrated in England, Fitzpatrick finds himself viewed differently in the United States, where he has been perceived as a rival during his four appearances with Team Europe at the Ryder Cup.
The golfer acknowledges that many American fans tend to support their home players over him, a sentiment he experienced recently in April at the RBC Heritage at Harbour Town, where chants of “USA, USA, USA” echoed while he played alongside Scottie Scheffler.
Fitzpatrick: The Growing Issue of Sports Betting in Golf
Acknowledged affectionately as Fitzy, he points out that the influence of sports betting has led to an increase in heckling and harassment directed at players.
“In my opinion, this is undeniably becoming a significant issue. In the context of golf, influencing a bet is alarmingly easy, whether it’s shouting during a player’s backswing or while they’re putting. Monitoring this behavior is quite challenging, but it undeniably poses a problem,” Fitzpatrick remarked during a media session at The Open.
The 2022 US Open champion stated that the backlash isn’t only directed at less favorable players or those competing abroad.
“Every professional golfer has faced abusive messages linked to gambling. Just look at social media this week; you can query the name of any player, especially if they’re struggling or are favorites, and you’ll find an avalanche of abuse,” Fitzpatrick elaborated. “Comments like, ‘You didn’t make that birdie. You’ve cost me money.’”
Fitzpatrick’s concerns echo those of many PGA Tour professionals who are apprehensive about the rapid expansion of sports betting.
Earlier this month, Jordan Spieth voiced the need to take action against the hostile comments thrown at players by frustrated bettors. The 2017 Open champion faced criticism for his remarks, given his long-standing partnership with FanDuel.
Current Odds for The Open Championship
As the countdown to The Open Championship begins, reigning champion Scheffler stands as the top betting favorite at +680. Following closely is Rory McIlroy, who triumphed at the 2014 Open Championship, with odds of +830. Fitzpatrick is tied with fellow English golfer Tommy Fleetwood at +1750 for the third-shortest odds.
Spaniard Jon Rahm follows with odds of +1950, while three American players, including Xander Schauffele at +2400, and Chris Gotterup and Cameron Young at +2900, round out the betting landscape.