Sports betting is believed to have started over 2,000 years ago. Although this is still debated, some historians believe that some form of sport betting existed back then and that it was most likely linked to chariot racing.
It is believed to have originated in Ancient Greece.
In the US, the practice of sports betting seems to have begun at the beginning of the 19th century with horse racing betting. However, sports betting only began to grow after professional baseball was established in 1876.
With the creation and establishment of professional sports, the practice of sports betting became more common and widespread. It was soon an inherent part of sports games for many spectators and sports fans.
But why is sports betting so popular? What are some of the factors behind the growth of the sports betting industry?
The main factors behind the growth and popularity of sports betting
Here are some of the factors that have fuelled sports betting over the years.
1. Technology
One of the main reasons behind the increasing popularity of sports betting is the development of technology.
With new mobile devices, laptops and other modern technology, sports betting is now easier than ever before. Sports fans can place their bets with online sportsbooks on their phones via apps and websites.
These apps and websites are easy to access, convenient and safe to use. Players can access them at any time of the day and from almost any location.
Before technology made it easy to place bets, individuals had to go to a land-based venue, wait in line and pay in-person to place their bets. This was time-consuming and inconvenient for the vast majority of gamers.
Technology has made betting more accessible to sports fans which is one of the main factors behind the growth of sports betting over the last few years.
2. The media
Another important factor behind the popularity of sports betting is the media. The media includes broadcasting, advertising, print media, publishing, news media and more.
These different forms of media tend to discuss sports extensively. They do so because individuals usually love sports, world cups and sports tournaments.
Journalists’ coverage of sports-related events is not only helping fans keep up to date with their favourite team’s achievements, it is also helping the sports betting industry.
Indeed, the media and particularly media broadcasting is helping the sports industry get more attention from the public.
This, in turn, helps attract more sports fans towards the practice of sports betting. Therefore, the media plays an important part in the growth of the sports betting industry.
3. The gaming industry
The gaming industry is also helping the sports betting industry grow in unexpected ways. Many sports-themed video games and gaming apps include a betting game.
For example, gamers might have the option to bet on a cricket player or a cricket team in some cricket-themed games. This means that gamers practice sports betting in video games and gaming apps.
Through these games, gamers discover sports betting and begin to have an interest in it. A number of gamers have turned to sports betting as a result of discovering it via a sports game.
4. More disposable income
Another important factor behind the popularity of sports betting is the higher quality of life that many individuals now have access to in the 21st century.
This higher quality of life sometimes means more disposable income which individuals are looking to spend on entertaining activities and hobbies.
Many individuals have used their disposable income on sports betting over the last few years. This is one of the main reasons why the industry is growing.
The more disposable income individuals have, the more revenues the sports betting industry generates.
5. Escapism
Why do individuals spend their disposable income on sports betting? One of the main reasons is that sports betting is a fun hobby and activity for many sports fans.
It has become a form of escapism, a way for individuals to forget about their troubles, their work and their daily routine. Sports betting is fun, exciting and nerve wracking.
Many individuals who participate in sports betting report feeling extremely alive afterwards as a result of the thrills and excitement it produces.
Sports betting is also an excellent way of feeling more involved in a sports game. By placing a bet, sports fans raise the stakes and find the game more entertaining to watch.
The joys and emotions triggered by sports betting are some of the most important reasons behind its success.
6. Working from home
Now that working from home is more common and that hybrid workstyles are the new norm, many individuals are turning to online betting sites for a bit of entertainment.
This change in general workstyle has benefited the sports betting industry, particularly the online sports betting industry.
Sports fans are looking for new and easier forms of entertainment and online sports betting provides an excellent one. Betting apps and websites are safe and secure betting options that remote employees love to use.
Final thoughts
This article explored the six main factors behind the increasing popularity of sports betting over the last few years. As explained, technology, the media and the gaming industry have all contributed to the growth of this industry.
Of course, an increase in disposable income, a sense of escapism and the possibility to work from home have all made sports betting more accessible, convenient and necessary for sports fans than ever before.
