**Former Cardiff City Striker Michael Chopra Opens Up About Gambling Struggles and Suicidal Thoughts**
Former footballer Michael Chopra, who once donned the shirts of Cardiff City and Newcastle United, has openly discussed the severe impact of his gambling addiction, including a period where he considered ending his own life. The ex-striker, known for his pace and goal-scoring talent, is now striving to bring these issues into the public domain to encourage others facing similar tribulations to seek help.
Chopra, whose professional career spanned clubs such as Newcastle United, Cardiff City, and Ipswich Town, has estimated his personal losses from gambling at around £2 million. Over the years, he has spoken candidly about his addiction, emphasising the need for increased awareness and better support systems for athletes and others alike. His background places him in a strong position to shed light on the dangers posed by unchecked gambling within the football community.
During his formative years at Newcastle, Chopra found himself in a position familiar to many who struggle with compulsive gambling. In a particularly alarming episode, he confessed to asking fellow teammate Kieron Dyer to place a substantial bet of £120,000 on his behalf in a desperate attempt to chase his losses. Dyer declined this request, instead choosing to involve Alan Shearer, then club captain, indicating how seriously those around him viewed his predicament.
Chopra’s problems escalated further during his tenure at Ipswich Town, where his debts spiralled out of control. According to his own recounting, he borrowed up to £40,000 from individuals he characterises as dangerous, suggesting he was entangled with criminal elements. “You’re probably looking at gangsters, those sorts of people,” Chopra stated during a recent podcast discussion, highlighting just how far his addiction had taken him from the relative safety and camaraderie of the football dressing-room.
The sheer desperation brought on by these debts and the perpetual anxiety of his situation pushed Chopra to a crisis point. He recalled sending farewell messages to his family and closest friends while travelling from Newcastle to Ipswich by train, convinced he could no longer cope with the weight of his mistakes. “I just said, ‘Listen, thank you for everything. I’ve had enough. I don’t want to be here anymore,’” he revealed, underlining the critical mental health challenges faced by those gripped by addiction.
Despite the seriousness of his situation, Chopra credits the intervention of his father as being pivotal in pulling him back from the brink. His father immediately reached out with an offer of unconditional support, insisting that they would confront the problem together. This moment of familial solidarity marked the beginning of Chopra’s journey towards recovery, underscoring the crucial role that loved ones can play in addressing addiction.
Reflecting on his journey, Chopra expressed deep regret over the impact his addiction had on his family, particularly the disappointment he felt he brought to his parents who had nurtured his dream of becoming a professional footballer from a young age. The transformation, from a proud son pulling on the Newcastle United colours to someone battling personal demons, serves as a stark reminder of how easily promising careers can unravel.
Chopra’s willingness to speak openly about his struggles is seen by many as an important contribution to tackling the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction in sports. By shining a light on his own experiences, Chopra encourages others to seek help before their situations become unmanageable.
For those struggling with gambling addiction, organisations such as GambleAware and the Samaritans offer confidential support and guidance. Chopra’s story serves as a powerful call to action, highlighting both the personal and collective responsibility to support those in crisis and to protect the wellbeing of athletes at every level.