Biggest Payouts and Most Popular Sports in Betting History

Explore some of the largest payouts ever recorded in sports betting, the most popular sports for wagering globally, and countries with the highest per capita spending on sports betting.

The top 3

  1. Top 3 Largest Single Sports Betting Payouts: Jim 'Mattress Mack' McIngvale holds the record for the largest verified payout, winning approximately $75 million on the Houston Astros to win the 2022 World Series. Other notable payouts include a £50 bet turning into $2.8 million on Leicester City winning the English Premier League, and Billy Walters winning $3.5 million on the New Orleans Saints in Super Bowl XLIV.
  2. Most Popular Sports for Betting Globally: Football (soccer) is overwhelmingly the most popular sport for betting worldwide due to its global fanbase and numerous leagues and tournaments. Other highly popular betting sports include cricket, tennis, and horse racing.
  3. Countries with the Highest Per Capita Sports Betting Spend: Australia consistently leads the world in per capita gambling spend, with an average of $940 per bettor in 2025. The United States follows, with an average of $630 per user, while the UK's average is $451.

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