Gambling and problem gambling among male junior elite footballers in Sweden: a cross-sectional study of prevalence, age differences and correlates.

abstractObjective: To examine gambling behaviours and problem gambling among Swedish male junior elite football players, including differences between players below and above the legal gambling age, and to identify gambling-related risk factors. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among players in the U16, U17 and U19 teams of the 32 clubs in the two highest divisions. In total, 741 players responded (43.3%). Past-year problem gambling was assessed using the Problem Gambling Severity Index and depressive symptoms using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine correlates of problem gambling. Results: Overall, 32% had gambled in the past year, with higher participation among players who had reached the legal gambling age (63.2% vs 22.4%). Problem gambling was nearly two times as common in this group (13.4%) compared with younger players (7.5%). Slots participation showed the strongest association with problem gambling followed by depressive symptoms. Awareness of gambling policies within clubs was low (15%). Conclusions: Gambling and problem gambling are more common among junior elite footballers, including underage players, than in the general population. The sharp increase in gambling after reaching the legal age, combined with low policy awareness, highlights the need for preventive interventions, clearer gambling policies and education within football clubs.