International Tennis Match-Fixing Network Dismantled in Multi-Nation Operation

In a coordinated effort spanning several countries, authorities have uncovered and dismantled a sophisticated tennis match-fixing network that manipulated approximately 45 matches across three continents between 2018 and 2024. The operation, initiated in 2023 after suspicious betting patterns were detected at the Rodez tournament in France, has led to multiple arrests and charges, highlighting the pervasive issue of corruption in professional tennis.

The investigation began when irregular betting activities at the Rodez tournament raised red flags among officials. Over the subsequent two years, law enforcement agencies from France, Spain, Romania, and Bulgaria collaborated to trace the origins and operations of the match-fixing scheme. Their efforts revealed a complex network involving players, intermediaries, and international criminal organizations, resulting in illicit gains exceeding €800,000.

In October 2025, coordinated arrests were carried out across the involved countries. A total of 16 individuals were detained: nine in France, four in Bulgaria, two in Romania, and one in Spain. Among those arrested were three French tennis players, all ranked outside the top 100, who admitted to accepting bribes to lose matches. The charges brought against the individuals include organized fraud, sporting corruption, and money laundering.

The criminal network primarily targeted financially vulnerable, low-ranked players, offering them up to €5,000 to manipulate match outcomes. Central figures in the scheme include two Bulgarian brothers, one of whom was previously banned for life by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) in November 2020 for fixing five matches and inciting nine other players to "not give their best." The other brother received a 10-year ban for attempting to bribe another professional player and betting on tennis, which is prohibited for professional players.

The International Tennis Integrity Agency has been proactive in addressing match-fixing. In September 2024, five players were sanctioned for violations of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Program, admitting to offenses including match-fixing and failing to report corrupt approaches. Sanctions ranged from suspensions to fines.

The revelation of such a widespread match-fixing network damages the sport's integrity, eroding public trust and potentially affecting viewership and sponsorships. This case highlights the financial struggles of lower-ranked players, making them susceptible to corrupt practices. Authorities emphasize the need for enhanced international cooperation to combat such corruption in professional tennis.

This is not the first instance of match-fixing in tennis. In 2023, Spanish authorities dismantled a global match-fixing ring with INTERPOL's support, leading to 23 arrests. The group was suspected of fixing sporting events and using technology to place bets ahead of bookmakers.

While previous cases have been significant, the current investigation stands out due to its extensive international coordination and the number of matches and players involved. The recent tennis match-fixing investigation underscores the persistent challenges in maintaining the integrity of professional sports. It highlights the need for robust support systems for players, especially those financially vulnerable, and the importance of international collaboration in addressing and preventing corruption.