Sports betting is gaining popularity in the U.S., with a record 73.5 million Americans expected to place wagers on the NFL this season, according to a recent survey by the American Gaming Association. This represents a 56% increase from last year, when approximately 46 million people bet on the NFL.
The AGA’s survey also revealed that 19% of American adults are planning to place a bet this year, either online, at a casino or with a bookmaker. Out of this group, 35.1 million or 14% plan to bet online, while 5% plan to bet at a physical sportsbook.
The NFL, which was once opposed to sports betting, has embraced the trend following the Supreme Court’s 2018 decision allowing states to legalize sports betting. Now, sports betting is legal in 34 states and Washington, D.C. and has become a lucrative business for companies like DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars, and BetMGM.
The NFL has also entered into partnerships with these companies, signing five-year deals worth an estimated $1 billion in 2021. Moreover, teams like the Washington Commanders, Arizona Cardinals, the New York Giants, and Jets have physical sportsbooks at their stadiums.
However, the emerging trend has posed new challenges for the league, including player confusion over betting rules, leading to multiple suspensions.
Read more at CNBC.
