Meaning of “Both Players to Win a Set”
This market means you’re betting that each player will win at least one set during the match.
- The match must have at least two sets (so it only applies to best-of-three or best-of-five matches).
- If one player wins in straight sets (2–0 or 3–0), your bet loses.
- If both players win at least one set (e.g., 2–1 or 3–1), your bet wins.
Example with Real Players
Let’s use a best-of-three match between:
Novak Djokovic vs Jannik Sinner
Example 1 – Bet Wins
- Final Score: Djokovic 2–1 Sinner
- Djokovic wins the first set 6–4
- Sinner wins the second set 7–6
- Djokovic wins the third set 6–3
Result: Both Djokovic and Sinner won a set → Bet Wins
Example 2 – Bet Loses
- Final Score: Djokovic 2–0 Sinner
- Djokovic wins 6–3, 6–4
Result: Sinner did not win a set → Bet Loses
How It’s Displayed on Bookmakers
You’ll often see this market shown as:
- “Both Players to Win a Set – Yes/No”
- Example Odds:
- Yes: 2.40
- No: 1.50
If you bet ₦10,000 on “Yes” at 2.40 and both win a set, your return = ₦24,000 (₦14,000 profit).
When to Bet “Both Players to Win a Set”
This market is best used when you expect a close, competitive match — especially when:
- Both players are strong servers (few breaks of serve expected).
- Players have similar rankings or playing styles.
- Conditions favor long rallies or slow surfaces (like clay).
- Matches between rivals or players with a history of tight contests.
Example Situations
Example 1: Carlos Alcaraz vs Daniil Medvedev (Hard Court)
- Both are elite players and great returners.
- Alcaraz aggressive baseline play vs Medvedev’s defense usually leads to long matches.
- Previous head-to-head often goes to 3 sets.
Bet Suggestion: “Both to Win a Set – Yes” is a strong pick.
Example 2: Iga Świątek vs Daria Kasatkina (Clay)
- Świątek dominates on clay and often wins 2–0.
- Kasatkina struggles against top power hitters.
Bet Suggestion: “Both to Win a Set – No” makes more sense here.
Betting Tips
- Check Head-to-Head Stats:
- If most past matches went to 3 sets → good for “Yes”.
- Surface Matters:
- Clay = slower points → more chance both win sets.
- Grass/Indoor = quick matches, higher chance of 2–0.
- Fatigue or Recent Form:
- If one player is tired or recently injured → avoid “Yes”.
- Best-of-5 Matches (Men’s Grand Slams):
- “Both to Win a Set” is safer here since more sets = higher chance both win one.
- Live Betting Tip:
- If underdog starts strong and wins the first set, you can bet live on “Both to Win a Set” (since the favorite may bounce back).
Summary Table
| Scenario | Match Result | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 2–1 or 3–1 | Both players won a set | Bet Wins |
| 2–0 or 3–0 | Only one player won sets | Bet Loses |
| Retirement before 2 sets completed | Depends on bookmaker rules | May void bet |