Former NRL Star Battles $500K Gambling Addiction

Former professional rugby player Luke Bateman has opened up about his harrowing battle with a severe gambling addiction, which culminated in losses exceeding $500,000 during his time in the National Rugby League (NRL). The 30-year-old, who now boasts a following as a TikTok star, shared his struggles in a candid interview with news.com.au.

The Rise and Fall of Luke Bateman

Bateman played for the Canberra Raiders from 2015 to 2019, a period marked by a culture of gambling within the team. He revealed that nearly half of his teammates faced similar addictions, highlighting the prevalence of this issue among professional athletes.

The Darkest Hours

During his lowest moments, Bateman faced immense emotional turmoil. He described the experience as “horrible” and admitted to contemplating suicide. “I was at the end of the tracks,” he said, reflecting on the despair that engulfed him. Despite earning a substantial salary as a footballer, financial distress led him to seek assistance from his mother for mortgage payments.

• $500,000 lost to gambling.
• Years spent fighting addiction after NRL career.
• Approximately half of his teammates also struggled with gambling issues.

The Road to Recovery

Bateman faced a choice: seek help or succumb to his addiction. He ultimately chose the difficult path of recovery, motivated not only by his own desire for change but also by the love for his family. “I knew they would be in more pain without me,” he said, emphasizing the impact of his struggles on his loved ones.

After entering a rehabilitation program and committing to his recovery, Bateman has now maintained sobriety for nearly six years. In recent years, he has found stability and strength, describing the fight as both challenging and transformative.

Sharing His Story

Now, Bateman is vocal about his experiences and aims to inspire others facing similar battles with addiction. He encourages those struggling to recognize their worth and the importance of remaining present for their loved ones. “You are loved,” he emphasized, urging individuals to seek help.

Upcoming Appearances

Luke Bateman will appear as a contestant on the upcoming season of I’m A Celebrity … Get Me Out Of Here!, which premieres on January 18 at 7 PM on Channel 10. His participation in the show may provide him with an additional platform to raise awareness about gambling addiction.