A recent report reveals that angry gamblers were responsible for nearly half of the 12,000 abusive social media posts. These posts targeted tennis players in 2024.
The study, conducted by the ITF (International Tennis Federation), WTA (Women’s Tennis Association), AELTC (All England Lawn Tennis Club), and USTA (United States Tennis Association), monitored 2.47 million posts across various platforms. They used an AI (artificial intelligence) detection system for the analysis.
The Threat Matrix system found that fifteen monitored accounts breached criminal thresholds. They also referred to national law enforcement agencies.
A joint statement from the four organizations said that protecting their players and the wider tennis family from online abuse is critical to them all. That’s why they came together a year ago to put proactive monitoring service in place for their athletes and officials.
Launched at the start of 2024, the system monitored all social media posts to players and officials. It focused on identifying harassment, abuse, and threats during Wimbledon and the US Open.
Rapid thread assessment of personal safety is being provided by it. Moreover, alerts social platforms of abuse and fixated threats.
The study also found that a smaller number of accounts, 52 in total, were responsible for prolific abuse. Additionally, authorities flagged 15 accounts to law enforcement agencies.
Gamblers were responsible for 48% of abuse, with tennis popular on betting sites, as found by the report. On the other hand, users flagged sexist and inappropriate comments as the most common posts.
The Threat Matrix system works in 39 languages. Right now, it protects almost 8,000 players, according to the tennis organizations.
Victoria Azarenka, former world number one said the new tool in highlighting abuse was essential. She said no one should have to endure the hate that so many have faced on these platforms. Azarenka added that she is pleased they now have the tools to filter content and create a healthier online environment.
