Australian tennis player Destanee Aiava has dropped a bombshell: 2026 will be her final year as a professional. At just 25, the Samoan-Australian, who peaked at world #147 and inspired many from Pacific Islander communities, announced her decision in a raw Instagram post. She described tennis as her “toxic boyfriend” – a sport that gave her travel, friends and a platform, but also took her health, family ties, self-worth and peace of mind.
Aiava didn’t hold back. She thanked supporters and her roots but unleashed a “ginormous f*** you” to the tennis world. She called out a culture hidden behind “white outfits and traditions” that she says is “racist, misogynistic, homophobic and hostile to anyone who doesn’t fit the mould.” She admitted feeling behind at her age, scared but ready to chase purpose over misery.
A major flashpoint in her statement was gamblers. Aiava directly slammed “every single gambler who’s sent me hate or death threats,” highlighting the relentless direct messages and abuse that followed her matches. This wasn’t abstract frustration – it was personal, repeated harassment that chipped away at her.
She’s far from alone. WTA and ITF reports show angry gamblers drive 40% of all online abuse aimed at players, jumping to 77% in private DMs. Elina Svitolina shared vile messages after a loss, calling out bettors for shaming mothers and wishing harm on her Ukrainian family. Jessica Pegula posted screenshots of threats after a shock defeat, branding the senders “insane and delusional.” Katie Boulter has received death threats and explicit photos, while Caroline Garcia exposed messages urging her to kill herself. These cases reveal a pattern: bettors lash out when they lose money, turning social media into a minefield for female players.
Aiava’s exit shines a harsh light on tennis’s dark side. At 25, she’s choosing a life away from the court over the grind – a brave stand that might force the sport and betting industry to finally act.
Main photo credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images