The Ryder Cup is now just weeks away, with both Keegan Bradley and Luke Donald finalising their teams after announcing six captain’s picks apiece.
Excitement is building ahead of the showpiece at Bethpage Black in New York, where the action tees off on September 26.
The top UK betting sites have already begun rolling out the red carpets for new and existing customers eager to get involved.
Wagering on the Ryder Cup adds an extra layer of intrigue to an already electrifying spectacle – but to bet smart, it helps to know the patterrns that really matter. Here are five betting trends every golf fan should keep in mind.
Home Advantage
Since 1995, only three away teams have won the Ryder Cup. The USA’s record at home is particularly formidable, with the New York crowd expected to be especially vocal.
The historic record of home teams triumphing at the Ryder Cup is already reflected in the markets as the Americans have been installed as narrow favourites.
Europe’s In-Form Stars
Rasmus Hojgaard is the only fresh face on Team Europe from their 2023 win in Rome, as he replaces his twin brother Nicolai.
There was always going to be high spirits on Donald’s team from their success two years ago, but recent wins from Justin Rose and Tommy Fleetwood have only strengthened their position even more.
Rob MacIntyre also found form at the BMW Championship with an impressive second-place finish.
Rookies vs Experience
In contrast to Team Europe, the Americans have gone with four rookies in their team with JJ Spaun, Russell Henley, Ben Griffin and Cameron Young making their first Ryder Cup appearances.
Donald has likely gone with experience over youthful promise, knowing his team will need battle-hardened players to handle the hostile New York atmosphere.
On the other hand, Team USA was in need of a revamp after their disastrous show in Rome two years ago and picking four fresh faces could give them the spark they need on home soil.
Top Points Scorer Markets Heating Up
Arguably the most value to be had is in the top overall points scorer markets as there are several factors to consider.
Most would have backed Scottie Scheffler to finish as the top points scorer two years ago, but he only managed one in a shock result.
The 2021 edition saw Rory McIlroy struggle with just one point in four matches.
History suggests going with one of the best players on home soil – but there are also unlikely heroes such as Francesco Molinari in 2018 for Team Europe.
Correct Score
In the 22 editions of the Ryder Cup since Great Britain & Ireland changed to Team Europe, the most common final result has been 14.5/13.5, which has happened seven times in that time.
The last close match was the infamous ‘Miracle of Medinah’ back in 2012, with the previous few editions being fairly one-sided.
Other popular final scores in the history of the Ryder Cup are 16.5/11.5 (four results) and 18.5/9.5 (four results).
Read the full article here