Types of PGA Golf Bets – A Beginner's Guide

While some may think of golf as the preserve of the wealthy, it is actually one of the globe's oldest sports. Its modern-day version was established as far back as the 15th century and traces its roots to Ancient Rome, Persia, and China. Golf clubs coalesced as far back as the 18th century, and the rules were standardized. And now, it is one of the globe's most popular sports with huge events like the Masters, PGA Championship, US Open, and the Open Championship (or the British Open). The pros receive legendary trophies and eight-figure paychecks.

Where there is competition, so also does betting. If you want to have your say on the best golf sports betting, you will be able to access a variety of markets, some of which will provide enormous rewards. You do not necessarily have to be a golfing genius to place a bet, but it is highly recommended. But do not worry if you are a beginner at the great game of golf — this guide will familiarize you with the sport and betting on it.

Golf Betting Markets

Golf tournaments are distinctive in their structure. Unlike head-to-head matchups in other sports, golfers don't play each other head-to-head. Major tournaments consist of four rounds, each with 18 holes. Stroke play is employed, which means that the score is on the total number of strokes, not the winner of each hole. Only the top 50 players "make the cut" and play after two rounds. The others are eliminated. The player who has the lowest score at the end of the tournament wins.

These are the principal golf betting markets:

• Outright Winner
• Place Bet
• Each-Way Bet
• Against the Field
• Head-to-Head
• Three-Ball Betting
• To Make the Cut
• Prop Bets
• Alternative Outrights

There are numerous factors to take into consideration when betting on golf. Because many tournaments involve more than 100 players, even favorites have large odds. Some markets have fewer options and could be safer bets to place.

Outright Winner

This is the simplest type of bet. You choose the golfer you believe will win the tournament. Outright odds are normally posted in advance. Though odds will change in the lead-up to the event, you can place a bet at any time up to the start of the tournament.

Given the number of players, odds are usually liberal. Favorites usually range between 7 and 10 or even higher. Just because a player is a favorite does not necessarily make it a bet — many golfers have a reasonable chance of taking the title.

Place Bet

If you’re hesitant to bet on someone to win it all, place bets are a safer alternative. You’re wagering on a golfer to finish in the top positions — such as top 3, top 5, or top 10. The more places covered, the lower the odds, but the safer the bet.

Each-Way Bet

An each-way bet is the combination of an outright and a place bet. Your bet is split: half for the win, half for the place. It's popular with those who want the chance of a big payout but still receive pay-out for a secure outcome.

Example:
You lay $10 each-way on Rory McIlroy.

• Outright odds: 10.1
• Top 5 finish odds: 5.0

Breakdown:

• Win portion (5 x 10.1) = $50.5 profit
• Place portion (5 x 3.4) = $17 profit

In case McIlroy wins: you win both parts = $67.50
In case McIlroy places but does not win: you win only the place portion = $17

Against the Field

This is the opposite of a straight bet. You're betting that a specific golfer will not win the tournament. This is useful if a player has a big favorite, but you believe someone else will prevail. Odds are smaller, but the bet is safer.

This is a market where two golfers compete against each other. You bet on who will finish higher in the final standings. Your choice isn't necessarily required to win the tournament — simply beat the other player.

Since the only two results, the odds are not quite so significant, but these bets are perfect for supporters who know player performance on an individual basis.

Three-Ball Betting

Similar to head-to-head, but in this version you select one golfer out of a group of three. With three to choose from, the odds are better than for 1v1 markets, so some punters prefer it.

To Make the Cut

Bet on whether a player makes it into the first two rounds' top 50 and progresses to the final rounds. It is always going to be low that leading players will make the cut. Or, look for gifted amateurs, dark horses, or young debuts with high potential for surprising performances.

Prop Bets

Prop bets are for specific events or statistics for the tournament. They can be round-specific or for the whole tournament. Not all sportsbooks offer props on golf, but those that do will have extremely detailed options.

Examples:

• Total eagles, birdies, bogeys, double bogeys
• Whether there is a hole-in-one
• Winning margin
• Whether there is a playoff round

Alternative Outrights

Aside from the general winner, the bettor can bet on other outcomes. Some of these are:

• Top US, Chinese, British, or Canadian golfer
• Top golfer under 25
• Top amateur golfer

These tend to offer great value if you shop around.

Conclusion

Most bookmakers cover the four majors and a number of other significant events during the year. Not all sites listed here, however, carry every market shown above. A reputable sportsbook should have most, if not all, of these betting opportunities.

With all this information, you’re better equipped to make smart predictions and take advantage of the many betting markets available. Always research your bets, remember that anything can happen in golf, and — most importantly — gamble responsibly and enjoy the tournaments.