Betting Glossary

The most important tennis betting terms, explained simply.

A
Asymmetric odds

When the odds on the two outcomes differ sharply, pointing to a clear favourite.

B
Bankroll

The total amount you've set aside for betting. Good bankroll management is the foundation of long-term success.

Break point

A point at which the receiver (not the server) can win the game and break the opponent's serve.

H
Handicap

A head start or deficit (in sets or games) applied to make the odds more even.

M
Betting market

A type of bet offered on a given match, e.g. match winner, total sets, game handicap.

O
Odds

The price offered by a bookmaker, which determines the return on your stake.

S
Bet slip

A summary of the bet(s) you've placed; can be a single or a combination (accumulator).

V
Value

A bet where the odds are higher than the true probability of the outcome - this is what produces long-term profit.

JW
James Whitfield · tennis betting analyst
9 years' experience covering tennis odds markets · ATP/WTA analyst