Bryce Harper, the Philadelphia Phillies superstar, sent a thank you video to Terry Thompson, a FanDuel VIP who wagered $18.5 million on the platform.
What happened?
Thompson received the personalized video from Harper, which was marked with the FanDuel logo, after making significant wagers on the platform.
Harper addressed Thompson by name and acknowledged his young son in the video.
The video was recorded at the request of Thompson's VIP manager, Bryttanni, who wanted to ensure Thompson had an "extra special Thanksgiving".
Why it matters for Bryce Harper
Harper's appearance in the promotional video might have encouraged Thompson to continue wagering on the platform, which has now become a key part of a high-profile lawsuit.
The lawsuit alleges that FanDuel encouraged Thompson's gambling addiction, which ultimately led to him wagering $18.5 million on the platform.
What comes next?
The incident highlights the potential risks associated with endorsement deals and their impact on gambling addiction.
Harper was unaware of Thompson's gambling addiction or betting history when the video was recorded, according to reports.
The Phillies star has a long history of involvement in promotional campaigns, including a highly paid endorsement deal with Under Armour in 2016.
The deal, which was reported by ESPN's Darren Rovell, made Harper one of the most highly paid baseball stars in history for an endorsement deal.
Thompson's lawsuit against FanDuel is ongoing, with the company facing allegations of encouraging gambling addiction.
The incident has raised questions about the responsibility of sports betting platforms and their partners to protect vulnerable individuals from addiction.
Bryce Harper's involvement in the promotional video has sparked debate about the potential impact of endorsement deals on gambling addiction.
The Phillies star remains one of the most recognizable faces in baseball, with a reputation for being involved in countless promotions throughout his career.
The incident is a reminder of the potential risks associated with sports betting and the importance of responsible gambling practices.
FanDuel has faced criticism for its handling of Thompson's account, with allegations that the company encouraged his addiction.
The company has denied any wrongdoing, but the incident has raised concerns about the need for greater regulation of sports betting platforms.
Bryce Harper's team has not commented on the incident, but the Phillies star is likely to face questions about his involvement in the promotional video.
The incident is a reminder of the potential consequences of sports betting and the importance of responsible gambling practices.