FanDuel, the popular sports betting company, allegedly sent a bettor struggling with a massive gambling addiction a personalized video from MLB star Bryce Harper.
The video thanked the bettor by name and mentioned his young son, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer.
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The bettor, Terry Thompson, has wagered $18.5 million with FanDuel since 2020 and lost about $2 million.
He is now a plaintiff in a lawsuit against FanDuel, claiming the company fueled his addiction with perks and VIP treatment.
In the video, Harper wished Thompson an "extra special Thanksgiving" and even mentioned Thompson's young son.
Harper's longtime agent, Scott Boras, declined to discuss how FanDuel obtained the video.
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Thompson was considered a VIP due to his high wagering volume, earning perks like Super Bowl tickets and high-end champagne.
But his losses led him to take out second and third mortgages on his home, which fell into foreclosure.
He also sold shares of an investment company.
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The situation became so severe that Thompson's therapist feared he might harm himself and sent police to his home.
Thompson eventually entered a psychiatric facility for gambling addiction treatment.
MLB rules allow athletes to appear in advertisements or make personal appearances for casinos, racetracks, or sportsbook companies, as long as they do not encourage betting on baseball.
However, The Inquirer could not find another example of an active professional athlete sending such a message to a fan.
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Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes' agent, Leigh Steinberg, called the video "bad for sports." The lawsuit against FanDuel is currently pending.
