What Is 3rd Game Point Handicap in Table Tennis Betting?
A 3rd game point handicap means the bookmaker adjusts the score of the third game by adding or subtracting points from one player’s total before deciding the winner of that bet.
For example:
- If a player is much stronger, they may start with a –3.5 handicap (meaning they need to win by at least 4 points for your bet to win).
- If a player is weaker, they may get a +3.5 handicap (meaning they can lose the game by up to 3 points and your bet still wins).
This market focuses only on the 3rd game of the match — not the entire match outcome.
Example of 3rd Game Point Handicap Betting
Let’s take a real-life example with two players:
- Player A (Fan Zhendong) – a strong favorite
- Player B (Liam Pitchford) – the underdog
Betting Line:
- Player A: –3.5 handicap
- Player B: +3.5 handicap
Scenario 1:
- 3rd Game Score: Fan Zhendong wins 11–7
- Fan Zhendong wins by 4 points, so your bet on Player A (–3.5) wins.
Scenario 2:
- 3rd Game Score: Fan Zhendong wins 11–9
- Fan Zhendong wins by 2 points, which is less than 3.5 — your bet on Player A (–3.5) loses, and Player B (+3.5)wins.
Why Bettors Choose 3rd Game Point Handicap
- Better Odds: Handicap bets often offer better odds than just picking a simple game winner.
- Level Playing Field: It balances the difference in skill between two players.
- In-Play Advantage: You can study momentum and stamina from the first two games before placing your 3rd-game bet.
- Short-Term Excitement: You only need one game outcome — not the whole match.
3rd Game Point Handicap Betting Tips
- Study Game Momentum: Check how players performed in the first two games. If the favorite struggled, an underdog +handicap bet might be smart.
- Analyze Player Consistency: Some players start slow but dominate later; others lose focus in mid-games.
- Look at Head-to-Head Stats: If past games between players show close scores, a small handicap like +2.5 or +3.5 could have strong value.
- Avoid Emotional Bets: Always bet based on performance trends, not player popularity.
- Use Live Betting: Watch live matches to see who’s controlling rallies before placing your 3rd game handicap bet.
Example Betting Strategy
If Player A wins the first two games comfortably (11–4, 11–6), odds for Player A –3.5 handicap in 3rd game may drop.
But if Player B has shown signs of adjustment, betting on Player B +3.5 handicap can give value — even if they lose the game, they may cover the handicap spread.
Final Thoughts on 3rd Game Point Handicap Betting
The 3rd game point handicap is a strategic and rewarding betting market in table tennis. It allows bettors to find value beyond simply picking the winner, especially when there’s a clear skill gap between players.
By studying form, momentum, and live play, you can make informed bets that increase your winning chances.