New York stars reveal the vile ‘wild west’ of social media — and the ugly messages they’ve faced

 Short News: Athletes Face Wave of Betting-Related Hate Online

NY athletes say legalized sports betting has fueled a surge in violent, hateful messages on social media.

Mets pitcher Ryne Stanek said he gets “death threats all of the time,” including “I hope your family dies” after bad outings. He blamed gambling: “if you mess up their bad life choice, you’re the problem.”

Giants kicker Graham Gano and Knicks star Jalen Brunson also described threats, racism, and insults sent to them and their families. Giants OT Jermaine Eluemunor said his wife made Instagram private after comments about his kids. Islanders’ Jean-Gabriel Pageau involved team security when threats targeted his wife and kids.

Players say DMs, comments, even Venmo requests for “bet losses” are common. Teams like the Yankees now include social media harassment in media training.

Mental health is a growing concern. Giants’ Eluemunor and Jets’ Tony Adams said the only solution is limiting exposure. Stanek warned leagues need to act “before the worst-case scenario happens.”