Understanding table tennis betting odds is essential if you want to win consistently in one of the fastest-growing betting markets in the U.S. With Colorado bettors alone wagering over $31 million on table tennis in January 2025, it’s no longer just a niche sport—it’s a booming betting category that offers real profit potential if you know how to read the numbers.
Whether you’re new to betting or just transitioning into this unique sport, this guide will break down table tennis betting odds step-by-step so you can place smarter bets and find real value in a game that moves fast both on the table and at the sportsbook.
What Are Table Tennis Betting Odds?
At the core, table tennis betting odds represent the probability of an outcome happening—like a specific player winning a match—and how much you stand to win if you place a successful wager.
Most U.S. sportsbooks use American odds (e.g., -150 or +200), but you might also see decimal or fractional odds depending on where you bet. Understanding how to convert and compare them is key to getting the best value.
Types of Table Tennis Bets and How the Odds Work
1. Moneyline Bets
The most common wager in table tennis is the moneyline, where you simply pick who will win the match.
- Example:
- Player A: -130
- Player B: +110
A -130 line means you must bet $130 to win $100. A +110 line means you win $110 from a $100 bet. The negative number indicates the favorite, and the positive number indicates the underdog.
In table tennis, where upsets happen frequently, underdog moneyline bets can offer great value—especially in close matchups.
2. Total Points (Over/Under)
Bookmakers set a line for how many total points will be scored in a match or game. You bet on whether the actual number will be over or under that amount.
- Example:
- Over 74.5 (-110)
- Under 74.5 (-110)
If the final match total is 76, Over wins. These bets are influenced by play style—some players are aggressive attackers, others are defensive tacticians. Knowing the difference can help you read table tennis betting odds better.
3. Point Spread / Handicap Betting
In a spread or handicap market, one player is given a points advantage or disadvantage to level the playing field.
- Example:
- Player A -2.5 (-105)
- Player B +2.5 (-115)
If you bet on Player A, they need to win by 3 or more points overall in the match for your bet to cash. This is especially useful when a strong player is facing a weak opponent, but the moneyline value isn’t great.
4. Set Betting / Correct Score
You can also bet on the exact final scoreline of sets, similar to tennis.
- Example:
- Player A to win 3–1 (+300)
- Player B to win 3–2 (+450)
These bets are riskier but have much higher payouts. Reading player history and momentum is key to making educated decisions on these odds.
Live Table Tennis Betting Odds: How to React Fast
Table tennis is one of the fastest sports to bet on live, with each point potentially shifting the odds dramatically. Live betting allows you to:
- Hedge your bet if the match swings unexpectedly
- Capitalize on slow starts from strong players
- Read momentum and rhythm, which is crucial in a back-and-forth sport
For example, if a top-seeded player loses the first set, their odds may improve to +150 live. If you still believe in them, this creates an opportunity for extra value.
How to Analyze Table Tennis Betting Odds Like a Pro
To turn raw numbers into informed picks, keep the following tips in mind:
- Track player performance on specific surfaces (some play better on certain tables or balls)
- Compare head-to-head matchups—styles make fights
- Look at recent form and fatigue (especially in tournaments with same-day multiple matches)
- Follow ITTF rankings and player schedules—top players may underperform in minor events
These factors are often reflected subtly in table tennis betting odds, and recognizing where a line may be off is how sharp bettors win.
Finding Value in Table Tennis Odds
Finding value means identifying odds that are mispriced based on your analysis. Let’s say two players have similar recent records, but one is priced at -180 and the other at +160. A deep dive into match history and playing style may show the underdog has a strong chance.
This kind of insight makes betting on table tennis betting odds rewarding—there’s still plenty of opportunity because the market isn’t as sharp as major sports like the NFL or NBA.
Watch Out for Line Movement
Betting odds change based on sharp money and new information (like injury news or lineup changes). If odds shift quickly, it often means experienced bettors have spotted something the public hasn’t.
Tracking line movement in table tennis can be even more important because of how fast matches are played and how limited public data may be. Always double-check your line before you lock it in.
5 Male Table Tennis Players That Have Been Reliable for Bettors
When it comes to moneyline betting in table tennis, focusing on players with consistent performance and high win rates is crucial. Based on the latest ITTF rankings as of March 2025, here are the top five male players who have been delivering reliable results:
1. Lin Shidong (China)
Background and Career Highlights:
Birthdate: April 18, 2005
Birthplace: Danzhou, Hainan, China
Playing Style: Right-handed, shakehand grip
Highest World Ranking: Reached No. 1 in early 2025
Lin Shidong has quickly emerged as one of the sport’s elite talents, climbing to the top of the world rankings while still in his teens. His technical precision, explosive forehand, and calm demeanor under pressure have made him a nightmare for opponents and a favorite among bettors. Lin’s consistency and ability to win on big stages have earned him a reputation as one of the most reliable moneyline options in the sport.
2. Wang Chuqin (China)
Background and Career Highlights:
Birthdate: May 11, 2000
Playing Style: Left-handed, aggressive and versatile
Current World Ranking: No. 2
Wang Chuqin is a dominant force on the international circuit, known for his athleticism and relentless offensive play. His career is marked by major wins across singles, doubles, and team competitions. Wang thrives in high-pressure matches and is especially dangerous in tournaments, making him a popular pick for confident moneyline bets.
3. Liang Jingkun (China)
Background and Career Highlights:
Birthdate: October 20, 1996
Birthplace: Tangshan, China
Playing Style: Right-handed, shakehand grip
Highest World Ranking: Top 3 globally
Liang Jingkun has been one of the most consistent Chinese players over the last five years. He brings a balanced combination of power and finesse, often overpowering his opponents with deep rallies and aggressive topspin attacks. Bettors trust Liang due to his steady performance, especially in early-round matchups where he rarely slips.
4. Tomokazu Harimoto (Japan)
Background and Career Highlights:
Birthdate: June 27, 2003
Birthplace: Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
Playing Style: Right-handed, aggressive and unorthodox
Harimoto is one of the youngest elite players in table tennis, having burst onto the international scene with wins over much older and experienced opponents. His lightning-fast reflexes and unpredictable playing style keep opponents guessing. His fiery on-table demeanor and experience in major tournaments make him a smart pick in head-to-head moneyline bets, especially against lower-ranked players.
5. Hugo Calderano (Brazil)
Background and Career Highlights:
Birthdate: June 22, 1996
Birthplace: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Playing Style: Right-handed, shakehand grip
Highest World Ranking: No. 3
Calderano is Latin America’s premier table tennis star and top global contender. He blends power and agility with a well-rounded strategic approach, making him effective against even the toughest opponents. Hugo’s proven ability to upset top-tier players means his odds are often undervalued—making him an excellent value bet in the moneyline market.
While these top-ranked players often present lower returns due to their favored status, consistent performance can offer more predictable outcomes. Always consider factors such as current form, head-to-head statistics, and playing conditions when making betting decisions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Betting on Table Tennis
- Chasing big plus-money underdogs without research
- Assuming high-ranked players will always dominate
- Betting too late when the value is gone
- Ignoring player fatigue or back-to-back matches
Remember: table tennis betting odds reflect market sentiment and sharp money, not just player ability.
As table tennis continues to surge in betting popularity—especially in places like Colorado—learning how to read table tennis betting odds is a smart move for any sports bettor. The game is fast, the swings are wild, and the value is there if you know where to look.
With the right strategy, understanding odds isn’t just about numbers—it’s your edge. So the next time you see a moneyline you don’t recognize, or a spread that seems off, trust your prep and bet like a pro.
