The biggest Wins (and Losses) in Online Sports Betting History
Introduction
Online sports betting has become a global phenomenon, attracting millions of people from all parts of the world. With its convenience, accessibility, and exciting prospects, it has become one of the most popular forms of gambling. In recent years, the industry has experienced an unprecedented growth spurt, with new players entering the market every day. As a result, there have been some huge wins and losses throughout the years. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the biggest wins (and losses) in online sports betting history.
The Biggest Wins in Online Sports Betting History
1. Mick Gibbs – £500,000
In 2001, an Englishman named Mick Gibbs placed a 30p accumulator bet on a series of football matches. He correctly predicted the outcomes of 15 games, and the payout was a staggering £500,000. Gibbs became an overnight sensation and his win remains one of the most impressive in sports betting history.
2. Conor Murphy – £1,000,000
In 2010, Conor Murphy placed a £50 wager on five horses to win at the Cheltenham Festival. All five horses won, and Murphy walked away with a cool £1 million.
3. Ashley Revell – $135,300
Ashley Revell, a British man, sold all of his possessions including his house, car, and clothes, and bet it all on a single spin of roulette in Las Vegas. He placed a $135,300 bet on red and the ball landed on red, doubling his money.
4. Peter Edwards – £125,000
Peter Edwards bet £50 on his grandson, a young Welsh midfielder named Harry Wilson, to play for the Welsh national team. The odds were 2000-1, but Wilson went on to make his debut at just 16 years old, and Edwards won £125,000.
The Biggest Losses in Online Sports Betting History
1. Harry Kakavas – $20.5 million
Harry Kakavas is an Australian gambler who lost $20.5 million in just over 14 months of gambling at the Crown Casino in Melbourne. He sued the casino for exploiting his gambling addiction, but the court ruled against him.
2. Maureen O’Connor – $13 million
Maureen O’Connor, a former mayor of San Diego, lost $13 million playing video poker at casinos. She pleaded guilty to embezzling $2 million from her late husband’s charity to fund her gambling addiction.
3. Terrance Watanabe – $204 million
Terrance Watanabe, a businessman from Nebraska, lost $204 million at the Caesars Palace in Las Vegas in 2007. He claimed the casino gave him free alcohol and painkillers to keep him gambling.
4. Saif Malik – £2.5 million
In 2016, Saif Malik, a wealthy London businessman, lost £2.5 million in one night while playing baccarat at the Ritz casino. He eventually sued the casino for allowing him to gamble while he was drunk, but the court ruled in favor of the casino.
FAQ
1. What is online sports betting?
Online sports betting is the act of placing a wager on the outcome of a sporting event using the internet.
2. Is online sports betting legal?
The legality of online sports betting varies by country. In some countries, it is legal and regulated, while in others, it is illegal.
3. How do I start online sports betting?
To start online sports betting, you must first find a reputable online sportsbook, create an account, and make a deposit. Once you have funds in your account, you can place bets on your favorite sports events.
4. What are the risks of online sports betting?
Online sports betting, like any form of gambling, carries risks. The biggest risk is losing money, but there are also risks of addiction, fraud, and other illegal activity.
Conclusion
Online sports betting has seen both huge wins and losses throughout the years, with some individuals winning millions and others losing even more. While the lure of a big payout can be enticing, it is important to remember that the risks of online sports betting are high. It is crucial to bet responsibly and only gamble what you can afford to lose.