Road to Punter Series: 10 Best Sports To Bet On

 

Hi everyone, Liz is back with another episode of the Road to Punter Series! Last time, someone asked in the comments which sports betting option they should choose. Well, you’ve come to the right person! But with so many sports out there, how do you choose the right one to place your hard-earned cash on? Don’t worry, I’ve sifted through the options (while trying to keep my blood pressure steady) and picked the top 10 sports to bet on.

 

Spoiler alert: it’s not just about following your heart or blindly backing your favorite team. It’s about knowing the markets, understanding what makes each sport tick for bettors, and maybe sneaking in a cheeky in-play wager when you think no one’s watching.

 

Liz’s Pick: The Top Sports Worth Betting On

 

There’s a world of options when it comes to sports betting, and it’s not just about football or horse racing anymore. Different sports bring different vibes, market types, and betting styles. So here’s my rundown of the top 10 sports to bet on, covering their pros and cons, notable markets, recommended bookmakers, and a bit of my personal flair.

 

1. Football

 

Football is the undisputed king of sports betting, and it’s easy to see why. It is the most popular sport in the world to watch and bet on. Backing your favourite team might seem like the obvious choice since you know them well, but betting should always be calculated. The biggest mistake punters make is relying on their heart or gut instinct instead of doing the homework. I’m guilty of this myself, but hey, we all learn.

 

The football market is huge. Leading bookmakers offer a huge variety of markets and many provide livestreams for top matches, making football one of the best sports to bet on worldwide. Before placing any pre-match bets, it’s smart to check out stats not only for teams and players but also for coaches and even referees. Small details can have a big impact.

 

If you’re not into researching stats, in-play betting might be more your style. You can watch the game unfold and adjust your bets on the fly. Bookmakers help out by showing live graphics and stats during the match to guide your betting choices. It’s like having a helpful assistant, but without the awkward small talk.

 

 

Main Markets: 

• 1X2: Classic bet where you predict a home win, draw, or away win.

• Both Teams To Score (BTTS): Bet on whether both teams find the net.

• Over/Under Goals: Bet on total goals scored, like over/under 2.5 goals and 3.5goals.
  
  

 

Liz’s Recommendation for Football Betting

 

If you ask me, 1xBet is my top pick for football betting, and here’s why. First, their live streaming is amazing, letting you watch games in real-time without needing to top up your account. For someone like me, who loves betting while watching, this is a big win. When it comes to in-play betting, 1xBet offers over 300 markets like goals, corners, and yellow cards, making it perfect for those spontaneous bets during the game. Plus, they’ve got Cash Out and Bet Builder. The Cash Out feature lets you withdraw part of your stake before the game ends, so you can minimize risk or lock in profits early. And with Bet Builder, you can mix and match different bets into one, giving you tons of flexibility. In short, 1xBet has everything I need to keep betting fun and flexible.

 

2. Horse Racing

 

Something is thrilling about betting on a horse charging toward victory or wiping out spectacularly. Horse racing gives you all sorts of betting options, from picking a winner to more exotic bets, and that unpredictability is what makes it so exciting.

 

Most races are close with plenty of upsets, making it tricky to predict a winner, but that’s what keeps things fun. Whether you’re a beginner betting on a single race or a seasoned punter betting on multiple outcomes, there’s something for everyone. Plus, with live streaming from top bookmakers, you can catch every second of the action as the horses race past you, hopefully with your bet leading the pack.

 

Before you place your bet, do some research. Keep an eye on the weather, the horse’s age, form, and preferred distance. And remember, bankroll management is key. Only bet when you’ve got solid stats and a good gut feeling, because a little bit of luck never hurt either.

 

 

Main Markets:

• Forecast Bet: Predict the horses that will finish as the winner and runner-up.

• Trixie: This bet consists of three selections and four bets: three doubles and a treble. At least two selections must win to guarantee a return.

• Yankee: A combination of four selections and eleven bets: six doubles, four trebles, and one four-fold. At least two selections must win to secure a return.

 

Liz’s Recommendation for Horse Racing Betting

 

Parimatch is my top pick for horse racing betting. The platform offers a wide range of betting markets, making it perfect for anyone who likes variety. You can bet on classic options like win, place, and forecast bets, but they also offer combination betting options like Trixie and Yankee for those who like to mix it up a bit.

 

What really sets Parimatch apart is its live streaming and real-time data. You can watch races live, track the odds as they shift, and make in-play bets while the action unfolds. This is ideal for anyone who enjoys following the race closely and making adjustments to their bets as the race progresses. For example, if you're betting on the UK’s Cheltenham Festival or Royal Ascot, you can easily place a forecast bet to predict which two horses will finish first and second, or if you want to take a bit of a risk, you could go for a long-shot bet on an outsider.

 

3. Tennis

 

Tennis is a game full of surprises. One moment, your favorite player is smashing aces, and the next, they’re sitting on the sidelines wondering what just happened. It’s an individual sport, and anything can go down. That’s what makes it so exciting!

 

Before placing any bets, a little research goes a long way. Dive into those head-to-head stats and check out the surface preferences for each player. Sometimes, an underdog might be sitting there with amazing odds just waiting for you to scoop them up.

 

Then there’s the live streaming magic. Betting in-play is where the real fun happens. The momentum can shift faster than a tennis ball. One minute, your player’s on fire, the next they’re getting broken left and right. That’s when you pounce on those game-by-game bets.  If betting on the Outright Winner feels like too much of a gamble (we’ve all been there, trust me), you can always bet on who’ll make it to the final. Lower odds, less stress, but still plenty of drama as the tournament unfolds.

 

 

Main Markets:

• Match Betting/Match Result: Bet on who will win between the two players. It’s a good idea to check their head-to-head record first.

• Set Betting: You can bet on the total number of sets played or choose a player to win a specific set (Set Winner Bet).

• Tournament Winner: Bet on who will win the entire tournament. The odds will change as the tournament progresses, so timing your bet is important.

 

Liz’s Recommendation for Tennis Betting

 

1xBet offers a wide range of tennis events, covering all four Grand Slams as well as ATP, WTA, and ITF tournaments, providing extensive coverage for tennis bettors. The platform is renowned for its competitive odds, especially during major events, allowing users to potentially earn higher returns. Additionally, 1xBet provides multiple betting options, including match winner, set betting, total games, and more, giving bettors the flexibility to place more precise and strategic bets. For those who enjoy live betting, 1xBet features live streaming of key tennis events, enhancing the in-play betting experience. The platform also offers enhanced odds and occasional promotions like accumulator boosts and free bet offers, making it more attractive to bettors. 

 

4. Cricket

 

Cricket is a bit like that one friend who’s into everything. Not just your basic match winner or tournament bets, oh no! There’s a whole bag of quirky markets to dive into. For example, you’ve got the Completed Match bet, where you bet on whether the match will actually finish that day. Sometimes, rain or slow play can leave you high and dry with no result. Just don’t mistake it for a tie. A tie is where both teams are equally bad, but a no result means the game just didn’t happen. Major mood-killer.

 

Then there are the Over/Under markets, betting on things like Most Run Outs, Team of Top Bowler, or even Team of Top Batsman. It’s like betting on which team will bring their A-game, or which player is secretly a cricket superhero. Feeling lucky? Coin toss betting is your 50/50 shot. Heads or tails, either way, you’ve got a 50% chance of winning, so you might as well flip a coin.

 

Now, here’s where things get extra spicy: Individual player betting. Instead of just betting on teams, you’re backing the top batsman, top bowler, Man of the Match, or even the highest opening partnership. These are bets for the true cricket connoisseur, requiring a sharp eye for stats and player form. With all these quirky markets, cricket is definitely one of the best sports to bet on. It’s got options galore, and that’s what makes it such an interesting ride.

 

Main Markets:

• 1X2: A simple and popular bet where you predict the outcome of the match. You can choose between a home team win (1), a draw (X), or an away team victory (2).

• Top Batsman: This bet focuses on who will score the most runs in a match. It’s a tricky one, but by looking at a player’s form and averages, you can make a more informed choice.

• Top Bowler: You bet on who will take the most wickets during a match or a series. If you’re familiar with the players and their form, this bet can be rewarding.

 

Liz’s Recommendation for Cricket Betting

 

Dafabet offers an extensive range of cricket events, covering major tournaments like the ICC World Cup, T20 World Cup, IPL, and Big Bash League, plus domestic and international series from top cricketing nations such as India, Australia, England, and South Africa. Basically, there’s no shortage of action throughout the year. As for betting markets, Dafabet has it all. You can place bets on match winners, over/under runs, total wickets, player performances, man of the match, and even team-related bets. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to get into the nitty-gritty of cricket betting. On top of that, they throw in some cricket coupons and cashback deals, especially during big cricket events. If you choose their Superbet, you can get Bet Builder odds, giving you even more flexibility with your wagers. It’s a win-win!

 

5. Rugby

 

Rugby’s definitely one of those sports that’s gaining more attention, and not just from fans in the stands but also from punters looking to get in on the action. Whether you're into Rugby League (13 players) or Rugby Union (15 players), the matches are full of excitement with different ways to score, like conversions, penalty kicks, drop goals, and of course, tries. But let’s not forget about Rugby Sevens, which is perfect for anyone looking for fast-paced action. The Hong Kong Sevens and World Rugby Sevens Series have become a favorite for many.

 

When it comes to betting, rugby has plenty to offer. The games tend to be high-scoring, so Over/Under bets are a popular choice. Plus, it’s rare to see a draw, which means there’s always a definite outcome. If you’re getting into major tournaments like the Six Nations or World Cup, you’ll see a mix of heart and head driving bets on things like Outright Winner, Team to Score First Try, and Top Try Scorer. So if you're a fan of high-intensity games and plenty of ways to get involved, rugby betting is a no-brainer.

 

 

Main Markets:

• Anytime Try Scorer: Bet on a player to score a try at any point during the match. It’s a lower-risk bet with relatively low odds.

• First Try Scorer: Wager on which player will be the first to score a try. It’s a bit trickier to predict, but it offers higher odds in return.

• Half-Time/Full-Time: A combined bet on which team will be leading at half-time and who will win by the end of the match.

 

Liz’s Recommendation for Rugby Betting

 

If you’re looking to place some rugby bets, I’d definitely recommend 20Bet. Why? Well, for starters, they’ve got a solid range of rugby events to bet on, from Rugby Union to Rugby League. Whether you're into international tournaments like the United Rugby Championship or Pacific Cup, or the more local leagues, they’ve got you covered. But it’s not just about the events. 20Bet also offers a variety of betting markets like Anytime Try Scorer, First Try Scorer, and even Half-Time/Full-Time bets, so you can really mix things up. And let’s not forget their competitive odds. If you’re betting on something like who will score the first try or which team will win at half-time, the prices here are often better than elsewhere. Plus, with live streaming available for many rugby matches, you can place bets while watching the action unfold in real time.

 

6. Greyhound Racing

 

Greyhound racing is pure excitement, with the final result decided in mere seconds. Betting on the winner is the classic choice, but to really get ahead, you’ll want to study the stats before you place your wager. For a bit more thrill, you can go for a combination forecast, predicting the first two dogs to cross the finish line. Want to raise the stakes? Try picking the exact order of the top two, which comes with higher odds, but it’s not for the faint-hearted. You can also bet each-way on any dog, but remember, the payout for the runner-up is usually just a quarter of the odds.

 

To boost your chances, take a look at the greyhounds’ running styles. There are the early pacers, who zoom out of the traps, the middling pace dogs, who avoid traffic and then go full speed, and the stayers, who have strong endurance and keep pushing till the end. Knowing these little details can make all the difference when you’re placing your bet.

 

 

Main Markets:

• Odd/Even Trap: Bet on whether the winner will come from an odd or even trap number. It’s a 50/50 shot, but it can spice up the race.

• Tricast: A bet where you pick the top three dogs to finish in any order. It’s a bit trickier but offers higher rewards.

• Place Insurance: If your greyhound finishes second or third, you get your stake back. It’s a safety net for your bets.

 

Liz’s Recommendation for Greyhound Betting

 

When it comes to greyhound racing, Stake is my go-to bookmaker. They cover all the major greyhound tracks in the UK, Australia, and other key regions where the dogs are always racing. You’ll never run out of races to bet on. What really gets me excited about Stake is the live streaming. You can watch the action unfold in real time, which is perfect for placing in-play bets while you see how the race is shaping up. Stake also offers a wide range of betting markets, including win, place, each-way, forecast, and tricast bets, giving you plenty of ways to mix up your betting strategy. They even show you different odds formats, like American and fractional, so you can see exactly what you stand to win before making your bet.

 

7. Martial Arts

 

Martial arts betting is pure chaos in the best way. You’ve got everything from boxing and UFC to Muay Thai, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and even karate thrown into the mix. It’s a world where punches, kicks, and submission holds can make or break your bet, and you need to do more than just pick the guy with the flashiest walkout music. Research is key. Knowing a fighter’s strengths, weaknesses, and recent form will save you from betting on the wrong fighter. MMA is where the real madness happens, especially with UFC. One wrong move, and a fight can go from dominant to disaster in seconds. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but if you can handle the unpredictability, it can be one of the most thrilling sports to bet on.

 

Boxing is the drama queen of the combat world. You’ve got rivalries, comeback stories, and fights that make you wonder if the entire thing was scripted for TV. But don’t be fooled by the hype. Watch the weigh-ins, check the fighter’s body language, and listen to the trash talk. And keep an eye on the judges, because a close fight can flip faster than a fighter’s mouthguard. Just remember, you’re in the ring with the odds too, and they can punch back.

 

 

Main Markets:

• Method of Victory: Bet on how the fighter wins, whether it’s KO, submission, or decision.

• Outright Winner: Bet on who will win the fight.

• Round Betting: Bet on which round the fight will end.

 

Liz’s Recommendation for Martial Arts Betting

For martial arts betting, 20Bet is a great choice. It covers a variety of combat sports, including MMA, boxing, and kickboxing, as well as major events such as UFC and Bellator. The betting markets are solid, with options like Method of Victory and Round Betting that give you more ways to get specific with your bets.

The odds are competitive, offering good value. While livestreaming isn’t always available, they provide detailed stats and fight analysis, helping you make smarter bets. Nova88 is a great option for anyone looking to dive into martial arts betting.

 

8. Esports

 

Yes, esports! Competitive gaming has experienced a surge in popularity, and betting markets have followed suit. It’s a playground for younger punters who know their way around digital battlegrounds. Traditional sports are old news; virtual arenas are where the real excitement happens. Multi-million-dollar prize pools and gamers treated like rockstars keep the action intense. The top games like Dota 2, League of Legends, and Counter-Strike 2 lead the charge with fast-paced gameplay and lots of betting options.

 

You can bet on which team will take the win, who will rack up the most kills, or other specific events within the game. Knowledge of the game pays off big here, making it a playground for those who know their stuff. Grab your energy drink and get ready to dive into the thrilling world of esports betting.

 

 

Main Markets:

• Fantasy Betting: Choose a team lineup and score points based on their in-game performance.

• First Blood/Kill Betting: Bet on which team will make the first kill or draw the first blood.

• Map Winner Betting: Pick the team that will win a specific map instead of the whole match.

 

Liz’s Recommendation for Esports Betting

 

When it comes to esports betting, BK8 is where the cool kids play. It covers popular games like Dota 2, League of Legends, CS2, Valorant, and Mobile Legends with markets for match winners, map winners, first blood, and more. You can bet before the match or live as the game progresses. Powered by reliable software providers TF Gaming and Esports Bull, the experience is smooth and reliable. BK8 also supports local payment methods like GrabPay and Touch 'n Go, making transactions straightforward for Southeast Asian users. It’s a user-friendly and secure platform focused on esports betting.

 

9. Golf

 

Golf betting feels like waiting for your friend to finish a slow round, but it comes with plenty of chances to find a good bet. Many players compete for the top spot, so the odds can get quite long, giving outsiders a real shot. The game moves slowly, giving you plenty of time to check stats like player form, course history, and head-to-head records. Golf is a sport made for data lovers and careful analysis. Since tournaments last several days, in-play betting lets you place bets anytime before the final putt decides the winner.

 

 

Main Markets:

• Leader After the First Round: Bet on the golfer leading after the first round, often providing attractive odds.

• Outright Winner: Pick the player who will win either a specific day or the entire tournament, usually with favourable odds.

• Top Finish: Wager on a player finishing within certain ranks, like top 5, top 10, or top 20.

 

Liz’s Recommendation for Golf Betting

 

When it comes to golf betting, GemBet is the real deal. They don’t just cover golf like a casual weekend hobby; they dive deep into it with a solid range of betting options. You can place bets before the tournament kicks off or jump in as the action unfolds with both pre-match and live betting available. Their odds are competitive, often right around the industry average for big sports like football and cricket. With an Odds overround of 108-109%, you're getting decent value, not some shady deal. And they don’t just focus on local tournaments, GemBet covers all the big events like The Open Championship, Presidents Cup, Utah Championship, and more. So, if you're ready to swing your bets, GemBet’s the place to tee off!

 

10. American Football

 

American football! The sport that turns Sundays into a national holiday and has us all screaming at TVs like we’re the coaches ourselves. Of course, the NFL Super Bowl steals all the limelight, but don’t sleep on College Football or the Canadian Football League (CFL) – they’ve got their own flavor of football madness that can keep you betting year-round.

 

Leading up to the Super Bowl in February, NFL betting is in full swing, with Outright bets taking the spotlight. These long-term bets are perfect for anyone who wants to get emotionally invested in an entire season of NFL drama rather than just one game. And trust me, the drama never disappoints.

 

NFL betting is more than just guessing who’ll win. With the league’s tactical depth, sportsbooks throw out all sorts of stats about players, teams, and head coaches, so you can sound like an expert without actually knowing what the hell a "blitz" is. If you're new to the game, don't worry, NFL match betting is as simple as choosing which team is going to win. It’s like picking the least dysfunctional sibling to get you through family dinner.

 

 

Main Markets:

• NFL Match Winner: A simple bet on which team will win, with ties being rare except in the playoffs. Some bookies also offer odds on overtime if the game ends in a draw after regular time.

• NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP): A long-term bet on who will take home the MVP award at the end of the season.

• NFL Highest Points Scored: A bet on the player who will score the most points in a game, typically focusing on quarterbacks or wide receivers.
  
  

Liz’s Recommendation for American Football Betting

 

For American football betting, BK8 is definitely a touchdown. They’ve partnered with some serious sports betting software heavyweights like CMD368, Maxbet/IBC Sports, BTI-Sports, SBOBet, and M9bet-Sports, so you know the action is going to be smooth and reliable. Whether you’re putting your money on a single game, making a season-long bet, or going for the big MVP prediction, Boda8 has all the markets you could want, and then some.

 

And the odds? Let’s just say, you won’t be crying over short odds here. Boda8 delivers competitive pricing that’s sure to give you more bang for your buck, even if you're betting on those high-profile Super Bowl matchups or those sneaky regular-season games that everyone tends to overlook.

 

Promotions You Cannot Miss When Placing Bets

 

Alright, so you’ve picked your sport, done your research, and now you're ready to place that bet. But hold up, before we go deeper, let’s talk about the promos that could seriously boost your chances of a win or at least make your betting experience a whole lot more exciting. You don’t want to miss out on these golden opportunities to maximize your value. Let’s break down the most tempting offers that should have you saying, “Where do I sign up?”

 

Welcome Offer

A one-time deal exclusively for new customers, giving you extra incentives when signing up.

 

Free Bets

Betting credits are given to you, which you can use for placing bets without using your own money.

 

Deposit Bonus

The bookmaker matches your deposit, allowing you to place a larger bet.

 

Early Payout

This promo automatically pays out your bet as if it’s a winner, even before the event concludes.

 

ACCA Boost

Place an accumulator with at least two markets and get a cash boost on your potential winnings.

 

Bet & Get

Make a qualifying wager, and you’ll unlock bonus bets for future use.

 

Enhanced Odds

Take advantage of special odds offered by the bookmaker for a limited time.

 

Money Back

If your bet loses, you might get back a partial or full refund of your stake.

 

How To Choose Sports Suitable for You

 

1. What sports do you know best?

Sure, being a fan can make you a little biased, but at least you’ve got some insider knowledge. The trick is to research the competition to make sure you're not betting blind. Start with the simple markets; it'll make your betting experience way smoother.

 

2. What sports are you most passionate about?

Betting should add to the excitement of the game, not make it feel like work. If you’re betting on your favorite sport, you're more likely to enjoy the experience and care more about the outcome.

 

3. Looking for big profits?

If you're chasing the big bucks, you’ll want to focus on sports with high odds and large payouts. Just know that the higher the potential reward, the higher the risk, too.

4. What markets catch your interest?

Different sports have different types of markets. Some might appeal more to you based on how you like to bet, so pick one that aligns with your style, whether it’s simple win/lose or more complex bets like bet builder or player props.

 

5. Do you prefer local or international events?

Do you want to bet on local leagues or international tournaments? Make sure the bookmaker you choose covers the events that matter to you, whether they're local or global.

 

6. How important is livestreaming to you?

Live betting is a huge part of the experience, and livestreaming can really help you make more informed decisions as the game unfolds. Check if the bookmaker offers live streaming, or at least real-time stats and graphics, so you don’t have to do all the legwork yourself.

 

7. Does this mean I can only bet on one sport?

Not at all! Once you're comfortable with your go-to sport, feel free to branch out. If you're confident, try Accumulators or Bet Builders for more complexity. Just start small if you're cautious. When you step outside your comfort zone, those tempting odds can sway you. But always question your pick, don’t let the odds blind you, and make sure your bet makes sense!

 

GoalBible Final Verdict: The Art of Choosing the Perfect Sport to Bet On

 

So, what really makes a sport the best to bet on? It’s all about that sweet spot where the thrill of the game meets your winning strategy. First off, availability is key. You need a bookie who covers your favourite sports, whether you're into the classics or more niche picks. Then there’s market variety, because betting on "who wins" is so last year. Now you can bet on everything, from who scores first to how many total points a team racks up. Talk about options.

Now, odds quality comparison is your best friend here. Don’t settle for the same old odds when you can shop around for better value. Finally, research. Want to bet like a pro? It’s all about knowing the stats, the trends, and the gossip on injuries or team changes. Getting ahead of the game means being informed, and that’s how the pros do it.

Ready to stop guessing and start winning? Check out our Road to Punter Series; it’s got all the wisdom you need to start betting smarter. Now, go pick your sport and have fun with it!

 

FAQs

1. What is the best sport to bet on?

Football is undoubtedly the most popular sport to both watch and bet on around the world. However, betting on a sport you're passionate about can often provide a more enjoyable and rewarding experience.

2. What is the easiest sport to bet on?

Team sports tend to be the easiest to bet on, particularly when you're betting on an outright winner. The clear structure of team competitions makes it simpler to predict the outcome.

3. Are all sports available to bet on?

Yes, you can bet on a wide variety of popular sports, as well as some lesser-known niche sports for those looking for something unique.