Newcastle United’s talented midfielder Sandro Tonali has bravely opened up about his struggles with gambling addiction, a challenge that has significantly impacted his career and led to a temporary ban from the sport. In a candid discussion, he shared the personal battles he faced and the steps he took to confront and overcome these issues. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health awareness in sports and the profound effect of addiction on athletes’ lives.

This season, Tonali has made a remarkable return to action with Newcastle United, where he has been a standout performer under the guidance of manager Eddie Howe. Operating in a pivotal deeper role, his contributions are vital to the team’s aspirations of securing a spot in European competitions. His experience and skills could prove instrumental as he aims to make his mark in these prestigious tournaments for the first time since departing from Milan.

In an interview with La Repubblica, Tonali reflected on his past struggles with gambling, stating, “My lifestyle was negative. I was closed off from everyone and this made me change my behavior: even with the people who loved me and whom I loved. I was like that both at the training ground and at home, with friends and family. Today, fortunately, I am different.” This transformation highlights the challenges faced by athletes, emphasizing the need for support systems to help them navigate such difficult times.

Tonali disclosed that his betting habits began at a young age, around 17-18 years old, becoming a significant part of his daily routine. He shared, “It became a habit when I was 17-18. And normality when it started to take up a lot of my time. The fact that it was online obscured me from everything, I closed myself in my shell.” This addiction not only consumed his time but also distanced him from his loved ones, highlighting the isolating nature of gambling addiction.

He admitted that it wasn’t until his life started to unravel that he recognized the extent of his addiction. He reflected, “I actually think I never had it. When a person finds themselves in a situation like that, it’s difficult to ask them if they’re sick. They’ll always say no. Even if they feel that it’s not the case. They can’t think they have that problem, so they tend to hide it.” This insight underscores the often-unrecognized nature of addiction and the complexities involved in acknowledging personal struggles.

Following his realization, Tonali made significant lifestyle changes, including distancing himself from his mobile phone and severing ties with numerous acquaintances. He noted, “In the first two months I was detached from everyone, then returning to life, training every day without having the match, I realised that I was paying for what I had done.” This statement reflects the challenging journey of recovery, where recognizing the consequences of one’s actions is essential for healing.

Speaking about the impact of technology on his addiction, he remarked, “I haven’t had it for 6 months in the last year. Of course I felt a sense of freedom: the sensation of being okay even without it.” This resonates with many who find themselves dependent on their devices, illustrating how stepping back can lead to personal freedom and clarity.

As Tonali continues to excel for Newcastle this season, he remains determined to maintain his positive form. His journey is not just about proving his critics wrong but also about reclaiming his passion for the game and striving for success in European competitions. His resilience showcases the strength of the human spirit in overcoming adversity and serves as an inspiration to many.

Kaustubh Pandey I GIFN