Caroline Garcia Addresses Online Abuse and Betting Issues in Tennis

French tennis player Caroline Garcia has revealed that she received online abuse following her first-round loss at the U.S. Open, attributing the harassment to 'unhealthy betting.' Garcia criticized both social media platforms for failing to filter abuse and sports tournaments for partnering with betting companies. She raised concerns about the impact on younger players.

French tennis player Caroline Garcia has disclosed that she faced online abuse after her first-round loss at the U.S. Open, which she attributes to 'unhealthy betting' practices. Garcia lost 6-1 6-4 to unseeded Mexican Renata Zarazua.

Garcia shared screenshots of the abuse targeting her and her family, and criticized social media platforms for not taking stronger measures against anonymous abuse. 'Tournaments and the sport keep partnering with betting companies, which attract new people to unhealthy betting,' she said on Instagram.

Garcia also questioned why online anonymity allows such behavior, stating that similar actions in public would have legal consequences. She voiced concerns for younger players, noting their vulnerability to online abuse. Fellow players like Iga Swiatek and Madison Keys supported her stance, highlighting the pervasiveness of such threats.

(With inputs from agencies.)