What Does 4th Game – Total Points Mean in Table Tennis Betting?
The 4th Game – Total Points market focuses on how many total points will be scored by both players combined in the fourth game of a match.
For example:
- If the 4th game ends 11–9, the total points are 20.
- If the 4th game ends 11–6, the total points are 17.
Bookmakers will usually offer lines such as:
- Over 18.5 points
- Under 18.5 points
Your job is to decide whether the total number of points in the 4th game will be over or under the set line.
Example with a Real Player Scenario
Let’s take an example using Fan Zhendong vs Ma Long, two top table tennis players.
Scenario:
You are betting on the 4th game – total points.
- The sportsbook offers:
- Over 18.5 points @ 1.85 odds
- Under 18.5 points @ 1.85 odds
Possible Outcomes:
- If the 4th game ends 11–10, total points = 21 → Over wins.
- If the 4th game ends 11–7, total points = 18 → Under wins.
- If the 4th game ends 11–9, total points = 20 → Over wins.
In this case, if you bet on Over 18.5, you win your bet since the total points exceed 18.5.
How to Read the Odds
If you see:
- Over 18.5 @ 1.85
- Under 18.5 @ 1.85
This means:
- For every ₦1,000 you bet on Over, you will receive ₦1,850 if the total points exceed 18.5.
- For every ₦1,000 on Under, you will receive ₦1,850 if the total points are 18 or less.
Factors That Influence the 4th Game Total Points
- Playing Style of Each Player
- Aggressive players (like Fan Zhendong) often finish rallies faster, leading to fewer points.
- Defensive players (like Ma Long or Chuang Chih-Yuan) prolong rallies, which can lead to higher total points.
- Match Situation
- If the match is tight (e.g., 2–1 in games), the 4th game could be more competitive, possibly leading to Over 18.5 points.
- If one player is dominating (e.g., 3–0 lead), the losing player may lose focus, causing Under 18.5 points.
- Player Fatigue and Momentum
- By the 4th game, fatigue may start showing, especially in longer matches. This could reduce the intensity of rallies and influence total points.
Betting Tips for 4th Game – Total Points
- Analyze Previous Games
- Check the total points from the first three games. If the games were close (like 11–9 or 12–10), the 4th game might also go Over 18.5.
- Study Head-to-Head Stats
- Look at how the players have performed against each other historically. Some rivalries consistently produce long, high-scoring games.
- Consider Motivation
- A player trying to avoid losing a match (for example, down 1–2) may fight harder in the 4th game, increasing the chance of a high total.
- Live Betting Advantage
- If you’re watching the match live, observe player form before betting. If both players are defending well, Over could be a smarter pick.
- Avoid Emotional Betting
- Don’t base your bet solely on your favorite player. Instead, analyze form, statistics, and current momentum.
Example Betting Tip
If Tomokazu Harimoto is facing Hugo Calderano, and their previous three games ended:
- 11–9
- 9–11
- 12–10
This shows a competitive match pattern. Therefore, the 4th game will likely go Over 18.5 points. Betting on Over would be the smart move.
Conclusion
The 4th Game – Total Points bet in table tennis is a strategic market that rewards smart analysis of players and match flow. By studying playing styles, match intensity, and previous game results, you can make more accurate predictions.
Always bet responsibly and remember that in sports betting, consistent research and discipline lead to better long-term results.