Illegal betting: exemplary sanction in professional tennis
In the battle against illicit tennis betting, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) recently upheld a significant fine. Argentinian tennis player Sofía Luini, ranked 492nd in the world in September 2014, faces a seven-year suspension and a substantial fine. The International Tennis Integrity Agency’s (ITIA) strong dedication to safeguarding the organisation, emphasising the seriousness and consequences of violations, and providing a clear model for industry professionals and regulatory agencies is demonstrated in this instance.
Impact of the ruling on Sofía Luini
The decision by the CAS, based in Switzerland, directly affects Luini’s professional career. The ITIA claims that the player was convicted of 22 crimes between 2017 and 2018, and of tennis betting. The severity of the case is therefore demonstrated by the seven-year prohibition, which will be in place from 23 July 2024 to 22 July 2031, along with a $30,000 penalty. To offset the costs of the proceedings, the CAS also mandated that Luini pay 1,000 Swiss francs. During this time, the tennis player will not be permitted to compete in or attend events approved by the ITIA or its members, which include organisations such as the French Tennis Federation, the WTA, and the ATP, among others. Thus, the case sends a strong message about zero tolerance for illegal betting according to the ITIA.
Similar cases: focus on compliance
Stefano Reitano, Italian, was also sanctioned for breaking the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP), in addition to Luini. Reitano acknowledged engaging in betting 32 times between 2018 and 2022, including promoting gambling in February 2023, according to the ITIA. In light of this, independent officer Jeffrey Mishkin decided to impose a seven-month suspension and a €8,250 fine (€4,125 suspended), effective from 16 July 2025 to 15 February 2026.
Thus, independent officer Jeffrey Mishkin decided to impose a €8,250 fine (€4,125 suspended) and a seven-month suspension, which would take effect from 16 July 2025 to 15 February 2026. Similar to Luini’s case, this one highlights the ITIA’s zero-tolerance approach to behaviour that can jeopardise the integrity of professional tennis. Recidivism and a lack of cooperation throughout the process make the behaviour more difficult to evaluate, which is one factor that affects how harshly the consequences are imposed.
ITIA regulations and their role in the sector
To maintain and oversee integrity in the professional tennis scene, the ITIA, an independent organisation, is essential. The organisation claims that stringent guidelines are in place for all athletes, coaches, and tournament personnel in order to prevent corruption and conflicts of interest. Additionally, the ITIA develops educational and preventive processes, assigning officials to review the conduct of participants continuously. The restrictions on sanctioned players are clear: they cannot compete or participate in activities at events recognized by ITIA member bodies, which aims to ensure a transparent and fair legal betting industry for all players in the sector. As a result, Therefore, the actions of this body show the importance of transparency and high standards, which are crucial for regulators and compliance officers in the iGaming industry.
Adaptation to competitive and regulatory environment
In the iGaming sector, this series of resolutions establishes a standard for operators, regulators, and entrepreneurs. As a direct consequence, sanctioned players face total isolation from competitions, resulting in significant economic losses and damage to their public image. Such cases serve to reaffirm collective responsibility and the relevance of prevention and training polices in sports integrity, central aspects for those who manage and regulate responsible gaming in increasingly regulated markets.
This article was first published in Spanish on 1 August 2025.
