Stop betting on my name, it adds more pressure - Letsile Tebogo urges fans amidst online abuse from recent failures

Olympic champion Letsile Tebogo has spoken out against the growing trend of fans betting on his races, revealing the significant mental pressure and online abuse athletes face when they don't meet gamblers' expectations.

The Botswanan sprinter, who made history at the Paris 2024 Olympics, is calling on supporters to refrain from directing their frustrations and negative energy towards athletes.

Speaking on the Life Unscripted podcast with Lezozo, Tebogo explained that many now expect him to win every single race, leading to insults when he falls short.

"It’s about the supporters who support track and field. We know you guys are doing your own betting and all that, but don't send me a message," Tebogo stated. "People can bet their real money on you."

The sprinter admitted he was unaware of the extent of betting on his performances until after his Olympic triumphs. "I didn't know that there was betting until 2024 when I got the gold medal," he added. "Every time there is a race, they'd always think I’m going to come first. So, they start to insult you and do all that kind of stuff."

At the Paris 2024 Games, Tebogo became the first African in history to win Olympic 200m gold medal, setting a new African record of 19.46 seconds. This historic success brought him immense fame but also intense pressure, which has been compounded by the rise of betting culture in track and field.

He emphasized that this behavior creates a stressful environment that affects not only him but other competitors as well, leaving them mentally unprepared for competition.

"It's been there, and it also pressurises other athletes and me, and you know, you're not ready for this race," he said.

"Athletics is an individual effort. You know how much I have to get my performance to my best... We have disappointed people. It's just so complicated to explain it, but that's the only thing that I'll ask them for."

He concluded by reminding supporters that an athlete's career is a long and challenging journey, urging them to appreciate the process and allow competitors the space to perform without the added weight of betting expectations.