2025 Global Sports Betting Market Growth Report

Last Updated on 2025-06-19 by igamingdirect

Exploring the Explosive Growth, Regional Trends, and Emerging Tech Shaping the Future of the Global Sports Betting Market in 2025

Executive Summary

The global sports betting market in 2025 continues its strong upward trajectory. It is driven by the rapid expansion of legal markets, growing demand for mobile and in-play betting, technological innovation, and evolving consumer preferences. The 2025 Global Sports Betting Market is expected to reach $108.6 billion by the end of 2025, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 10.3% from 2021 to 2025.

Key growth regions include North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, with Latin America and Africa also showing signs of accelerated expansion. The surge is particularly notable in online and mobile betting segments, fueled by increased smartphone penetration and robust sportsbook software solutions.

Key Market Highlights

• Market Size (2025): $108.6 billion
• CAGR (2021–2025): 10.3%
• Dominant Segments: Online/Mobile Betting, In-Play Betting
• Leading Regions: Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific
• Emerging Markets: Latin America, Africa
• Top Drivers: Legalization, Mobile Usage, AI & Data Analytics, Live Betting

Market Trends and Drivers

1. Legalization and Regulation

Legal sports betting continues to gain ground, particularly in the U.S., Brazil, India, and parts of Africa. Regulatory clarity and frameworks are encouraging new investments from operators and software providers. The U.S. market alone is projected to contribute over $20 billion in gross gaming revenue in 2025.

2. Mobile and In-Play Betting Boom

The shift from desktop to mobile betting is nearly complete in mature markets, with over 75% of all online wagers placed via mobile devices. In-play betting now represents 50%+ of total bets placed online, reflecting bettor interest in real-time action and dynamic odds.

3. Tech Innovation in Sportsbooks

AI-driven analytics, machine learning odds engines, and advanced player profiling have enhanced sportsbook offerings in 2025. Automation, risk management tools, and custom player experiences are now industry standards, not bonuses.

4. Rise of Niche Sports and Esports

Bettors in 2025 are looking beyond the “big four” sports. Growth in wagering on table tennis, MMA, esports, and virtual sports has surged—particularly among Gen Z and millennial bettors.

Sports Betting Market Growth Report and Analysis by Region

The Role of AI in Sports Betting in 2025

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept in sports betting. It has become a foundational pillar of modern sportsbook operations in 2025. From oddsmaking to customer support, AI is streamlining operations, improving accuracy, and enhancing player engagement.

1. AI-Driven Odds and Risk Management

Modern sportsbooks use machine learning algorithms to process massive volumes of historical data, live feeds, and player stats to generate dynamic odds in real time. This not only ensures accurate pricing but also helps identify suspicious betting patterns and minimize liability on sharp action.

2. Personalized Betting Experiences

AI powers personalized content feeds, bet suggestions, and promotions based on user behavior and preferences. This targeted approach boosts retention and turnover rates, especially in mobile apps where user engagement is king.

3. Chatbots and Virtual Agents

AI chatbots now handle the majority of tier-1 customer service queries instantly, 24/7. They support player onboarding, KYC, withdrawals, and betting guidance across multiple languages and platforms, saving sportsbooks time and operational costs.

4. Predictive Analytics for Bettors

AI in Sports Betting isn’t just helping sports betting operators. It is being used by serious bettors. Bettors now access platforms that use AI to generate predictive models, optimize betting strategies, and deliver high-probability picks. For example, soccer bettors are now able to make more accurate soccer predictions giving them a slightly better edge then before. The line between sharp bettor and sportsbook algorithm is getting thinner by the day.

5. Responsible Gambling Monitoring

AI-based tools monitor player behavior for signs of problem gambling. When risk thresholds are met, systems can automatically send alerts, apply cool-off periods, or notify responsible gaming teams. This not only helps with compliance but also demonstrates social responsibility.

The Enduring Role of Offshore Sportsbooks in 2025

Despite the global push for legal and regulated sports betting, offshore sportsbooks continue to thrive in 2025. Especially in markets with legal uncertainty, limited access, or high tax burdens for operators.

1. A $20+ Billion Shadow Market

Offshore sportsbooks account for an estimated $20–30 billion in annual betting handle globally. These operators, often licensed in jurisdictions like Costa Rica, Curacao, Antigua, and Panama, serve players in countries where local options are restricted, highly taxed, or nonexistent.

2. Tech-Savvy and Player-Focused

Many offshore books offer competitive odds, fewer restrictions, and faster payouts compared to local options. Their software stacks are increasingly on par with regulated sportsbooks, featuring:

• Full mobile functionality
• Live betting
• Custom props
• Crypto payments
• Loyalty programs and VIP perks

3. Popularity in the U.S. and Asia

In the United States, even with legal sports betting in over 30 states, some bettors still turn to offshore books for better lines, anonymous play, or broader betting markets. In Asia, offshore books remain dominant due to slow regulatory reform and strong demand for online wagering.

4. Regulatory and Legal Headwinds

While offshore books operate in a legal gray area, governments are increasing enforcement efforts. Countries like the U.S., Australia, and the UK continue to block payment processors and IP access. However, the effect is marginal. VPNs, crypto, and alternative domains help these operators maintain business.

5. AI Search Overviews Putting a Damper on Offshore Sportsbooks

According to an AI Search Overview on the Offshore Sportsbook Industry by Blind Monkey Media, AI search overview is doing a better job slowing down their growth. Offshore Sportsbooks rely heavily on SEO to get new clients. In fact, their marketing team always ensures that they do not make small business website mistakes to ensure steady traffic.  However, times are changing as they are getting less traffic due to AI Search overviews.

6. The Offshore Future

In 2025, the offshore sportsbook market is adapting. Some are pursuing “semi-regulated” status by partnering with tech providers or white-label platforms that operate in regulated jurisdictions. Others are doubling down on crypto, decentralization, and anonymity to serve niche markets.

Conclusion and Takeaways of 2025 Global Sports Betting Market Growth Report

The global sports betting market in 2025 is vibrant, competitive, and ripe with opportunity. With legal reforms, mobile-first technology, and growing user demand, the industry is poised for sustained double-digit growth. Operators, affiliates, and software providers who adapt quickly, prioritize UX, and invest in emerging markets will lead the charge in this ever-evolving landscape.

Despite the global push toward regulated markets, offshore sportsbooks remain a dominant force, especially in regions with slow or restrictive regulation. They continue to attract bettors with faster payouts, fewer limits, and crypto-friendly policies. The estimated $20–30 billion in handle processed by offshore books reminds us that this “gray zone” is still very much part of the betting ecosystem. Furthermore, it is likely that it will remain for years to come.

What Lies Ahead for the Sports Betting Industry

Looking beyond 2025, we expect to see:

• Greater adoption of blockchain and crypto in sportsbook payments
• A deeper focus on player acquisition and retention through gamification and social features
• Continued blurring of lines between sports betting, fantasy sports, and esports
• Tighter regulations balanced with more sophisticated compliance tools

For operators, affiliates, software providers, and bettors, the message is simple: Adapt fast, invest in tech, and think globally. The game is only getting bigger, and the winners will be those who stay ahead of the curve.