Sports betting offers a distinct form of online gambling where participants predict the outcomes of real-world sporting events and wager on results, setting it apart from traditional casino games. Wagering options span from single matches to season-long performances of players, teams, or leagues, including the burgeoning esports sector. In Europe, sports betting continues to dominate the online gambling landscape. The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) reported that sports betting generated €18.4 billion in gross gaming revenue in 2024, accounting for 41% of the region’s total online gambling revenue. Across the Atlantic, the U.S. has emerged as a powerhouse in sports betting since the Supreme Court’s landmark 2018 decision to overturn the federal ban. As of December 2025, 40 states, along with the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, have legalized sports betting in some form, with 32 offering online platforms. In 2024 alone, Americans collectively wagered a staggering $153 billion on sports, a 27% year-over-year increase. This translated into $13 billion in revenue for the industry, up over 19% from the prior year. Since 2018, operators in the U.S. have amassed $55.8 billion in gross revenue from a total handle of $653 billion. New York leads state rankings, now crossing $80 billion in handle, with New Jersey following at $70 billion. The convenience of mobile sports betting has been a game-changer, driven by advancements in geofencing and regulation that ensure secure, user-friendly platforms. By 2029, the number of U.S. mobile sports bettors is projected to reach 58.2 million, with user penetration expected to rise from 11.0% in 2024 to 16.8% in 2029; average revenue per user is forecast at $264.40. In-play wagering - betting on events as they unfold - remains a growing trend. In Europe, 62% of wagers are placed on in-play events, and the U.S. market Sports Betting Industry Overview 56 Sponsored by Casino City’s iGaming Pocket Directory SPORTS BETTING
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