What is 3-Ball Betting in Golf?

Introduction

Golf is quite an interesting game. It is one of the few ball games that does not use a standardized playing area. It also presents a unique opportunity to bettors with 3-ball betting. It is not as well known as the traditional forms of golf betting where you predict the outright winner or wager on the performance of specific players.

But what exactly is 3-ball betting in golf and how does it work? In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of 3-ball betting, shedding light on its mechanics, strategies, and appeal to both seasoned bettors and newcomers alike.

What is 3-Ball in Golf?

Three-ball betting in golf are golf bets that involve three golfers in a group. It revolves around predicting which player within this specific group of three golfers will perform the best during a particular round of a tournament. Unlike traditional outright betting where you predict the winner of the entire event, 3-ball betting focuses solely on the performance relative to the other two players in the same group.

These bets typically occur in the early rounds of a golf tournament usually on Thursday or Friday before the cut is made. It is popular at most PGA Tour events.

This is when golfers will be grouped in trios on the course. Sportsbooks will set odds for a group of three golfers playing together in a golf match.

Bettors wager on the golfer they believe will finish with the best score out of the three. Three-ball bets are great because even the favorite will usually be at plus-money. It is harder to beat two golfers as compared to one, which accounts for the favorable odds.

Golf Betting Sites

How Does it Work?

Here’s how it works: before a round begins, golfers are grouped into threesomes to facilitate play. In 3-ball betting, sportsbooks offer odds on each golfer’s likelihood of having the lowest score within their group for that round. Your task as a bettor is to pick the golfer you believe will outperform the other two in their respective group.

This format adds an extra layer of excitement to individual rounds of golf, as it allows bettors to focus on smaller player groupings rather than the entire field. Additionally, 3-ball betting can be particularly appealing when there are matchups between top-ranked players or when there’s uncertainty about a golfer’s form heading into a tournament.

It is important to note that 3-ball betting can be offered for each round of a tournament. This means bettors have multiple opportunities to engage with the action throughout the event. Additionally, odds for a 3-ball betting may vary depending on factors such as player form, course conditions, and head-to-head matchups.

3-Ball Betting Example

The best way to understand the 3-ball bet is to simply look at an example.

• Justin Thomas +110
• Dustin Johnson +210
• Patrick Cantlay +270

Thomas, Johnson, and Cantlay are playing Round 1 of a weekend tournament together. Thomas is the favorite at +100.

Sportsbooks like this method of 3-ball betting. They will not group golfers who are not playing a round together. This way, they can’t get burned with variables like the weather or the course softening up throughout the day.

If you like Thomas to have the best score in Round 1, a $100 bet pays out $100.

House Rules Regarding 3-Ball Betting Matchups

Okay, we might have oversimplified it, but 3-ball betting is actually more nuanced than we have made it look. For one, the game has rules, and these rules must be met if anyone is to be declared a winner.

The great thing, however, is that these rules are pretty much the same across sports betting platforms. Here are the three most important rules you must know before placing your first 3-ball wager:

Dead Heat Rules

One important thing to note is the dead heat rules that exist at most sportsbooks in relation to 3-ball betting.

In a straight-up 2-ball bet – one golfer versus another – if the two players tie, the bet becomes void. In a 3-ball bet, it’s different.

Using the example above, let’s say you bet $20 on Thomas but Thomas and Johnson tied. Most sportsbooks take half of your bet amount and then apply the same odds to the remainder of your bet.

In the example, you lose $10 and then apply the other $10 as a winner at +110. You win $11 ($10 bet plus $1 profit). Your $20 bet returned $21 as a result of the tie.

Sometimes, of course, this is very rare, sportsbooks and online golf betting sites might decide to shift the odds. This is rare but in cases where it happens, it means bettors will make a profit.

Withdrawal or Disqualification

If one of the golfers in a 3-ball matchup withdraws or gets disqualified before completing the round, the bet may be voided or settled based on the remaining golfers in the group, depending on the sportsbook’s rules. Most times, one player withdrawing simply turns the 3-ball wager into a 2-ball wager.

However, in the very rare case that all the players in a group decide to withdraw or, in the much rarer case that they are all disqualified, the bet is rendered void and all the stakes are returned to the bettors.

It’s essential to check the specific withdrawal and disqualification policies outlined by the sportsbook you’re using.

Completion of Round

In 3-ball betting, bets are typically settled based on the outcome of the designated round of play, regardless of whether the entire tournament is completed. If the round is suspended or canceled due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, the bet may be voided or settled based on the completed portion of the round, depending on the sportsbook’s rules.

Missing the Cut

If at the end of the first two rounds, 2 of the players do not advance to the third round, the 3-ball wagers are graded, and the player who has the most points at the end of the round wins. This is the case even if the player who made it to the final round finished with a lower score than the other players. He is automatically declared the group winner and all wagers made on him will be paid out.

Now this does not mean that you should ignore reading the rules of the sportsbook you are betting on. But understanding the rules we have listed above and how they can be applied makes it easier to make informed decisions when participating in 3-ball betting matchups in golf and enhances your overall betting experience.

3-Ball Betting Tips

While it may seem straightforward to pick the golfer you believe will perform the best within their group, employing certain tips and strategies can enhance your chances of success. Here are some valuable tips and strategies to consider when participating in 3-ball betting:

Choose the Right Group

The best place to start when considering 3-ball bets is to find the right groups. You don’t need to find the best golfers. You only need to find the best golfer in a group of three. Picking the right group makes it easier to make this decision.

Focus on The Group

As we already mentioned, you are not trying to pick the overall best player in the tournament. You just need to pick the best player in a group.

Start with scoring averages in a given round. This is usually a pretty good indication of how well a player will perform in one of the opening rounds.

Remember, you are only betting on one round, probably the first round. How a golfer is doing overall is not as much of a concern as how well he has done in recent early rounds.

Research Player Form and Course Conditions

Before placing your bets, conduct thorough research on the form of each golfer in the group and how they have performed on the specific course in the past. Consider factors such as recent tournament results, performance on similar course layouts, and any injury concerns or changes in playing conditions.

Pay Attention to Recent Performance Trends

Look for trends in each golfer’s recent performance, including their scoring averages, consistency in hitting fairways and greens, and proficiency in key aspects of their game such as putting or driving. Identifying golfers who are trending upwards or experiencing a dip in form can provide valuable insights for betting purposes.

Assess Head-to-Head Matchups

A great way to determine how well players in a group will perform against each other is to take a look at how well they performed in previous meetups. Analyze the head-to-head matchups between golfers in the group. Consider factors such as previous encounters, playing styles, strengths and weaknesses, and historical performances in similar matchups. This analysis can help you identify potential advantages or disadvantages for each golfer.

Manage Your Bankroll Wisely

As with any form of sports betting, it’s crucial to manage your bankroll wisely and avoid placing bets that exceed your risk tolerance. Establish a budget for your 3-ball betting activities and adhere to disciplined staking strategies to mitigate potential losses and maximize long-term profitability.

Golf Betting Guide

2-Ball Vs. 3-Ball Betting

Both 2-ball and 3-ball betting offer unique opportunities to golf bettors. They share some similarities but still have distinct differences. Let’s explore the characteristics of each one:

Two-Ball Betting

• In 2-ball betting, bettors focus on predicting the outcomes of a head-to-head matchup between two specific golfers. It simplifies the process by narrowing the field to a direct competition between two players.
• With only two players involved in each matchup, bettors can concentrate on assessing the relative strengths, weaknesses, and form of the two golfers without the added complexity of additional competitors.
• 2-ball betting is particularly prevalent in match play events, where golfers compete against each other hole by hole rather than against the entire field.

Three-Ball Betting

• In a three-ball bet, bettors predict which golfer out of a group of three competitors will perform the best in a specific round of a tournament. This format introduces an additional layer of complexity by considering the performance relative to two other competitors within the same group.
• With three players in each group, 3-ball betting offers a broader range of betting options compared to 2-ball betting. Bettors can choose from multiple matchups within a single group, providing more opportunities to find favorable odds and exploit perceived advantages.
• 3-ball betting often requires bettors to consider not only the individual abilities of each golfer but also their ability to navigate the course and employ strategic approaches to different holes.

Which Format Should You Choose?

The choice between 2-ball and 3-ball betting ultimately depends on the preferences and betting strategies of the individual bettor.

If you prefer simplicity and direct competition, 2-ball betting may be more appealing. However, if you enjoy analyzing group dynamics and exploring multiple betting options within a single matchup, 3-ball betting could be the way to go.

Regardless of the format you choose, conducting thorough research, assessing player form and course conditions, and employing sound betting strategies are essential for success in golf wagering.

Alternative Markets to 3-Ball Bets

3-ball betting offers a great opportunity for bettors to wager on specific group dynamics within a tournament round. However, there are several alternative and similar markets for those looking for diverse betting options. These markets cater to various preferences and strategies, so you can bet on your favorite sports in alternative ways. Here are some popular alternative markets to consider:

• Outright Winner Betting: This traditional form of golf involves wagering on the golfer you believe will win the entire tournament. Outright winner betting offers the opportunity for long-term engagement, allowing bettors to follow their selected player’s progress throughout the event.
• Mythical 2/3 Balls: This unique twist to the standard 2/3 bets has you wagering on groups the bookmakers have created themselves. However, the rule stays the same. It is a fresh and imaginative way to immerse yourself in the sport.
• 36-Holes 3-Balls: This is also known as 3-ball betting over two rounds. It is a unique form of 3-ball betting where bettors wager on the performance of golfers over the course of two consecutive rounds, typically the first and second rounds of the tournament.

All these markets are a form of group betting. Group betting allows bettors to wager on the performance of a selected group of golfers within a tournament round. Instead of focusing on individual matchups, group betting involves predicting which golfer will have the lowest score among a designated group of players.

Best Sportsbooks For 3-Ball Betting

Any sportsbook that offers golf betting probably has a 3-ball betting option. However, while some are fully established, others are still entering the market. So, when choosing a sportsbook for 3-ball betting, consider factors such as reputation, reliability, odds quality, and customer service.

Here are some of the best sportsbooks known for offering excellent options for 3-ball betting:

• DraftKings Sportsbook
• FanDuel Sportsbook
• BetMGM
• Betway
• Bet365
• Betfair
• 888sport

3-Ball Betting FAQs

What types of golf tournaments typically offer 3-ball betting?

Major golf tournaments like the Masters, U.S. Open, Open Championship, and PGA Championship often feature 3-ball betting options. Additionally, high-profile events on the PGA Tour and European Tour may also include 3-ball betting opportunities for bettors.

Can I place live bets on 3-ball matchups during a tournament?

Yes, many sportsbooks offer live betting options for 3-ball matchups during golf tournaments. This allows bettors to place wagers on matchups as they unfold in real-time, based on evolving player performance, course conditions, and other factors influencing gameplay.

How do sportsbooks determine the odds for 3-ball betting?

Sportsbooks considervarious factors when setting odds for 3-ball betting, including player rankings, recent performance, course history, tee times, and weather conditions. They use statistical analysis and expert insights to assess each golfer’s likelihood of outperforming the others in the group.

Are there any tiebreaker rules in 3-ball betting?

In the event of a tie between two or more golfers in a 3-ball matchup, some sportsbooks may apply tiebreaker rules to determine the outcome of the bet. Common tiebreaker criteria include the lowest score on the back nine, the last six holes, or the golfer’s performance on specific holes.

Can I place parlay bets involving multiple 3-ball matchups?

Yes, many sportsbooks allow bettors to create parlay bets that involve multiple 3-ball matchups within the same tournament or across different events. Parlay bets combine the outcomes of multiple individual wagers into a single bet, offering potentially higher payouts but requiring all selections to be correct to win.

How does 3-ball betting differ from outright winner betting in golf?

While 3-ball betting focuses on predicting the best performer among a group of three golfers for a specific round, outright winner betting involves wagering on the golfer who will win the entire tournament. 3-ball betting offers a more focused and immediate betting experience, while outright winner betting provides long-term engagement throughout the tournament.

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