Golf betting includes a variety of options, and one that is commonly seen is the 2 Ball bet. For those exploring how golf betting works for the first time, this type of bet may appear on licensed websites or be mentioned in relation to major tournaments.
This guide explains the 2 Ball golf bet as it applies within the UK. It covers how it works, the basic rules, and how it compares to other forms of golf betting, offering a clear overview for anyone curious in this option.
What Is a 2 Ball Bet in Golf?
A 2 Ball bet in golf involves selecting which of two paired players will achieve the lower score in a single round. These pairings are determined by the bookmaker, and the bet applies only to that specific round rather than the entire tournament.
There are three possible outcomes: Player A records the lower score, Player B records the lower score, or the round ends in a tie. If the player you have selected scores fewer strokes than their paired opponent over the round, the selection is considered a winning outcome. For example, if Player A scores 71 and Player B scores 73, a selection on Player A would be settled as a win for that round.
The odds for each possible outcome are provided by the operator. This type of bet is limited to a single round and does not take into account overall tournament standings.
Terms and conditions can vary between bookmakers. It might be helpful to review the specific rules relating to ties, player withdrawals, and other scenarios before placing a bet.
How a 2 Ball Bet Works
A 2 Ball bet pairs two golfers for a single round of play. The aim is to predict which of the two will record the lower score over 18 holes. The result is based only on that specific round and does not relate to the golfer’s overall performance in the tournament.
Bookmakers usually display odds for each player involved in the pairing, and in some cases, they may also offer odds for the possibility of a tie. If the golfer you select finishes the round with a lower score than the other, the bet is settled according to the odds provided at the time the bet was placed.
In instances where a tie option is offered and selected, the bet is settled based on that outcome. If a tie option is not available and both players finish with the same score, the bet is typically void and the original stake is returned. However, if a tie option is available but not selected, and the round ends in a tie, the bet is usually settled as a loss.
Each licensed betting site will set out its own terms and conditions regarding bet settlement, including how ties and other scenarios are handled. It might be useful to read and understand these rules before placing a bet.
Example of a 2 Ball Golf Bet
Here’s an example from a professional tournament where a bookmaker offers the following 2 Ball market for the first round:
- Rory McIlroy: 11/10
- Tommy Fleetwood: 21/20
- Tie: 7/1
If you place a £5 bet on Rory McIlroy and he scores 70 while Tommy Fleetwood scores 71, your bet is settled based on the 11/10 odds. This would return a £5.50 profit, along with your original £5 stake.
If both players score 70 and the tie option was offered, that would be the winning result. If the tie option was not available, your stake is usually returned. If you did not select the tie outcome where available, and the match ends in a draw, the bet typically results in a loss.
Why It’s Popular With Golf Bettors
The 2 Ball bet is often selected by golf bettors because it focuses on a single round and only involves two players. This can make the process more direct for those following one part of a tournament.
This type of bet is usually available with licensed bookmakers in the UK during scheduled golf events. As new player pairings are listed for each round, this creates additional opportunities to get involved without needing to follow the full tournament leaderboard.
2 Ball bets can also be offered as “mythical” matchups. In these, the players may not be grouped together on the course but are compared statistically for betting purposes.
2 Ball vs Other Golf Bets
Several betting options exist in golf. Choosing a tournament winner requires looking at results across several rounds. The 2 Ball bet only applies to one round, which can make it easier to monitor.
Another alternative is the 3 Ball bet, where you select one golfer to post the lowest score among a group of three. This involves more outcomes and can be more complex than a 2 Ball wager.
Each Way bets are another option. These usually cover finishing positions over the full tournament and differ from the round-based 2 Ball market.
Which betting type to use depends on how much of the event you wish to follow and what level of detail you are comfortable reviewing. Each UK-licensed operator provides full rules for every bet type on its platform.
2 Ball Golf Bet Rules Explained
In a 2 Ball golf bet, the two selected players are paired for one round only. You select the player you believe will produce the lower score over 18 holes.
Bookmakers provide odds for each player and sometimes for a tie. If no tie option is available and the round ends with equal scores, the bet is generally void. If a tie market is included and you did not select it, the bet is typically settled as a loss.
If one of the golfers does not start the round, the bet is void in most cases. If a player withdraws or is disqualified after the round has begun, most operators will settle the bet as a loss for that selection.
Bets are usually considered valid once both players have started the round. All outcomes are based on official tournament results.
Each betting site licensed in the UK outlines the rules and settlement terms for these bets. Always remember to gamble responsibly and within your means- never wager more than you can afford to lose.
