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Is Sports Betting a Problem for Gen Z Men?

Sports betting is big among Gen Z men—it adds excitement to the games and a chance to make money, but they know it can come with risks…

Written and Edited by the YPulse Editorial Team

Mar 20 2025
North America

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The majority of Gen Z men are using sports betting apps because they’re easy, fun, and showing up everywhere from social media to streaming
Nearly half of young men say sports just aren’t as exciting unless there’s a bet on the line
Young men are aware of the downsides that come with sports betting, and almost half know someone addicted to it

Seven years ago, sports betting was illegal under federal law—now it’s practically everywhere. In YPulse’s Gen Z Vices trend report, we explored how gambling has exploded with Gen Z, particularly young men. And in our recent Sports and Athletes report, YPulse data backs it up again: 68% of 18-24-year-olds have gambled in some form—whether it’s at the casino, lottery games, or sports betting. And since sports betting became legal, it’s easier (and trendier) than ever. Young people on social media are constantly celebrating their wins (or mourning their losses), which only fuels more interests. The sports betting industry has also...