Golf betting is mostly about outright and place markets, because the winner comes from a field of over a hundred players. This guide explains the main golf markets, how each-way betting works in golf and what to check before you bet. It is not a tipping service, and no golfer is a sure thing.
What are the main golf betting markets?
- Outright winner: the player to win the tournament, usually at big prices.
- Each-way: a win bet plus a place bet. Golf each-way terms are often a fraction of the odds for the first five or so places, but they vary, so check them.
- Top 5, top 10 and top 20: placed markets with shorter odds.
- First-round leader: who leads after round one.
- Head-to-head and three-balls: which player of a pair or group scores best in a round.
- Make the cut: whether a player plays the weekend.
How does each-way betting work in golf?
An each-way bet is two equal bets, one to win and one to place. If your golfer finishes in the places, the place part pays a fraction of the odds. A €5 each-way bet costs €10. Ties are settled by dead-heat rules, which reduce the payout when players tie for a place, so read the terms before you bet.
Which golf tournaments do Irish punters bet on most?
The four majors draw the most interest: the Masters in April, the PGA Championship in May, the US Open in June and The Open in July. The Ryder Cup, held every two years, is also a big betting event. Interest in golf betting peaks in March and April around the Masters, based on Irish search data.
What should you check before betting on golf?
- Recent form and how the player has performed on similar courses.
- Course fit: length, greens and conditions.
- Weather, especially wind and rain, which can change who has an advantage.
- Field strength and tee times.
- Each-way terms, number of places and dead-heat rules at each bookmaker.
Where can you bet on golf in Ireland?
Bet only with a bookmaker licensed for Irish customers: see our betting sites in Ireland and how to check a bookmaker is licensed. Use the bet calculator to check returns.
Keep it in perspective
Golf outrights lose far more often than they win, which is why the prices are big. Keep stakes small and treat it as entertainment.
Set a budget before you start, only bet what you can afford to lose, and see our responsible gambling page for help.
Frequently asked questions
How does each-way betting work in golf?
It is a win bet plus a place bet, with the place part paid at a fraction of the odds if the golfer finishes in the places.
What is a dead heat in golf betting?
When golfers tie for a betting place, the payout on that part is reduced according to how many share the place.
Which golf tournaments are most popular for betting?
The four majors and the Ryder Cup.
Are golf betting tips reliable?
No. Golf is hard to predict and outright bets lose far more often than they win.
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