Handicap betting is a popular and more advanced form of betting in tennis that aims to level the playing field between two players of different skill levels. This type of betting can be an attractive choice for bettors who want to find value in matches where one player is heavily favored. In this article, we’ll explain how handicap betting works in tennis, discuss its advantages and disadvantages, and provide examples to help you understand this betting option better.
Understanding Handicap Betting in Tennis
In handicap betting, the bookmaker gives a virtual advantage (or disadvantage) to one of the players in the form of games. This handicap is designed to make the match more even in terms of betting, with the odds for both players being closer to even money (2.00).
For example, if Novak Djokovic is playing against a lower-ranked player, the bookmaker may offer a handicap of -5.5 games for Djokovic. This means that for a bet on Djokovic to win, he must win the match by at least 6 games more than his opponent. Conversely, if you bet on the lower-ranked player with a +5.5 game handicap, your bet will win if they lose by less than 6 games or if they win the match outright.
Advantages of Handicap Betting in Tennis
Handicap betting in tennis offers several advantages:
- Better value: Handicap betting can offer better value for matches with a clear favorite, as the handicap levels the playing field and brings the odds closer to even money.
- More exciting matches: With the handicap in place, even matches with a strong favorite can become more competitive and exciting from a betting perspective.
- Increased betting options: Handicap betting provides an additional way to bet on tennis matches, giving you more options to choose from.
Disadvantages of Handicap Betting in Tennis
However, there are also some disadvantages to consider:
- Complexity: Handicap betting can be more complex than traditional match winner bets, especially for beginners, as it involves understanding the handicap system.
- Requires deeper analysis: To make informed handicap bets, you need to have a good understanding of the players’ form, head-to-head records, and playing styles, as well as the likely margin of victory.
Example of a Handicap Bet in Tennis
Let’s consider an example of a handicap bet in tennis:
- In an upcoming ATP match, Rafael Nadal is playing against a lower-ranked player.
- The bookmaker offers the following handicap betting options with fractional odds:
- Nadal -4.5 games: 10/11
- Lower-ranked player +4.5 games: 10/11
- You believe that Nadal will win comfortably, so you place a £50 bet on Nadal -4.5 games at 10/11 odds.
- Nadal wins the match with a score of 6-3, 6-2, meaning he won by 7 games.
- As Nadal won by more than 4.5 games, your handicap bet wins.
- Your return would be: (£50 x 10/11) + £50 = £95.45 (including your original stake).
Conclusion
Handicap betting is an exciting and potentially rewarding way to bet on tennis matches, offering better value and more options for matches with clear favorites. By understanding how handicaps work and analyzing the players’ form and likely margin of victory, you can make more informed bets and potentially find value in the market.
As with all forms of gambling, it’s crucial to bet responsibly and within your means. Handicap betting can be more complex than traditional match winner bets, so make sure you fully understand the system before placing your bets. By weighing the advantages and disadvantages of handicap betting in tennis, you can decide if this betting option is right for you and potentially enhance your tennis betting experience.