In a candid admission, Ashley Klein, the NRL’s top referee, has revealed that he battled a gambling problem linked primarily to horse racing and greyhounds. The statement, shared with The Sydney Morning Herald, highlights the magnitude of his struggles, indicating he lost approximately $400,000 over the years.
Klein clarified that his gambling issues were entirely separate from his professional responsibilities as a rugby league referee, emphasizing, “This gambling was not related to any betting on Rugby League, and my job as a referee has never been impacted.” He discussed the difficult journey of seeking help, asserting that he has closed all associated betting accounts since confronting his problem. “This was a difficult…