Rugby League great Allan Langer has revealed he struggled with a gambling problem for much of his career.
Langer joined the Brisbane Broncos in 1988 after working for the Ipswich City Council.
While he was placing small bets at the council, things escalated when his pay increased with his sporting success and he was soon punting thousands, News Limited reports.
"I was betting most days, part through boredom, partly though excitement and the thrill to win," he told The Sunday Mail.
"The competitiveness just comes out."
Langer said the addiction cost him much of his lifestyle but he tried to hide it.
"It is one of those things where you look back and wish you had never done it."
The 49-year-old has urged younger players to know their gambling limits, warning sudden pay increases can fuel temptation.
"My limits started off well, but they just exploded," he said.
