Betting tens of thousands to win hundreds: Inside the wild world of ‘No’ bets

Betting tens of thousands to win hundreds: Inside the wild world of ‘No’ bets

Article brief provided by ESPN
  • David Purdum, ESPN
July 20, 2024 12:14 PM
  • David Purdum, ESPN
  • United States

Professional bettor Rufus Peabody looked down at a text from his brother and betting partner Tom Peabody on the Sunday morning before the final round of the U.S. Open.

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“Well, it’s generally optimal to not lose $360,000.”

The Peabody brothers had taken a $360,000 position on Bryson DeChambeau not to win the U.S. Open at -2400 odds and that sarcastic text reflected their current dilemma. If DeChambeau did not win the tournament, the Peabody’s would win $15,000. But when the text from Tom arrived ahead of the final round, DeChambeau was leading by three shots.

Entering the tournament, Rufus thought the odds of DeChambeau not winning were closer to -3200, so he believed having to pay only -2400 was a bargain.