BetMGM Cracks Down: Sportsbook Rolls Out Sweeping Anti-Harassment Policy to Shield Athletes and Staff
In a significant step toward curbing the dark side of the sports betting boom, BetMGM unveiled a stringent new anti-harassment policy on Monday. The updated terms empower the sportsbook to suspend or ban customers found guilty of directing abusive language or harassment toward athletes, coaches, or any team and league personnel.
The policy shift, confirmed via press release and social media, marks an expansion of the company's control over user conduct. Previously, account suspensions were primarily tied to unlawful acts. Now, the line extends to personal abuse, a growing concern as legal wagering spreads across the U.S.
"This update underscores our commitment to sports integrity and player safety," BetMGM stated on X. The new integrity policy, pending regulatory approvals, is slated for rollout across all 30 of BetMGM's retail and mobile markets.
The timing is critical. Sports betting continues its rapid expansion, with Missouri becoming the 39th state to launch in December. The American Gaming Association projects a record $1.7 billion in wagers for the upcoming Super Bowl. This surge has been accompanied by a documented rise in vitriol from disgruntled bettors targeting sports figures.
Recent high-profile cases have put the issue in stark relief. In October, former San Diego Padres manager Mike Shildt cited death threats from angry bettors as a factor in his retirement decision. In June, FanDuel banned a bettor who followed and heckled Olympic champion sprinter Gabby Thomas during a track event.
"As a professional athlete, I know how important respect is—both on and off the field," said NFL Hall of Famer and BetMGM ambassador Barry Sanders. "BetMGM is sending a strong message that harassment has no place in sports or sports betting. I'm proud to see BetMGM taking a stand to protect individuals and promote integrity."
BetMGM frames the policy as part of its broader responsible gaming initiative, which now explicitly addresses bettor behavior beyond addiction. The company also utilizes tools like GameSense—an educational program on responsible gambling installed in 10 NFL stadiums—and standard safety features including deposit and time limits.
Reaction & Analysis:
Marcus Chen, Sports Business Analyst: "This is a necessary, if overdue, industry benchmark. BetMGM is proactively managing a brand risk that all operators face. The real test will be consistent enforcement and whether competitors follow suit."
David Riggs, Former College Athletic Director: "Finally, a concrete action. Our athletes, especially at the collegiate level, have been verbal punching bags for anonymous online bettors for too long. This policy provides a tangible mechanism for consequences."
Sarah Feldon, Sports Bettor & Blogger: "Oh, great. More rules from the very companies that bombard us with ads. They profit from our passion and then police our frustration when a bad beat happens. It's hypocritical and feels like virtue signaling."
Dr. Lena Torres, Behavioral Psychologist: "This institutionalizes a boundary that was desperately needed. It deters the toxic belief that placing a wager buys a right to personally attack participants. It's a small but crucial step in changing the culture around sports betting."
This analysis was developed from original reporting by Covers.com.