In a troubling trend for athletes, requests for money from bettors have become increasingly common following losses. Auburn senior quarterback Payton Thorne recently revealed that he has received messages on Venmo asking for reimbursement after games. However, Thorne jokingly noted that these requests are far from cash transactions.

During an appearance on "The Next Round," Thorne shared his experience of being approached by bettors seeking compensation. He admitted that it's amusing how individuals demand their money back whenever they lose their wagers but fail to share their winnings when luck is on their side.

While Thorne made light of the situation, it has caught the attention of the NCAA, which is actively monitoring and attempting to address this issue. A study conducted by Signify, an artificial intelligence company working in collaboration with the NCAA, revealed that one in three high-profile college athletes receives messages from individuals with a vested interest in betting.

This phenomenon is not limited to the college scene alone. Professional athletes have also faced similar encounters. Professional Golfer's Association (PGA) golfer Max Homa disclosed the frequency with which bettors discovered his Venmo account and demanded money from him, averaging multiple requests per week.

Speaking with The Washington Post, Homa expressed his weariness over constantly dealing with such requests, suggesting that it becomes tiresome and interruptive.

As the prevalence of sports betting continues to rise and intertwine with the world of athletics, the NCAA and sports organizations must find ways to address the potential negative consequences stemming from this trend. Protecting the mental well-being and privacy of athletes should be a top priority.

While some requests may be harmless or seen as amusing, this growing issue deserves attention and action to ensure that athletes are not unduly burdened or affected by relentless demands for financial compensation following defeats.