Ryder Cup Money Stuns Bookmakers

Europe's outstanding Ryder Cup success over America last weekend resulted in record levels of betting. Europe, who were hot favourites right from the beginning of golfs greatest tournament, were almost unbackable on the last day at 1/10 (1.10).

William Hill were first to announce that the K Club tournament produced record levels of betting. It wasn't all bad news for Hills, though, as one punter from the North East reportedly lost over £300,000 from his bet on USA. Infact, it turned out to be a hugely successful weekend for the bookmaker, despite Europe's victory.

Graham Sharpe, a spokesman for William Hill said, "He is a regular customer in his mid to late thirties - who used to be a Phil Mickelson fan.

"Another client staked £80,000 on the USA and yet another customer lost £120,000 on one of the Saturday matches to make it our most profitable Ryder Cup ever."

Hills reported over £25 Million gambled on the event in total.

Irish bookmaking giants Paddy Power were also surprised at the level of punting on the golf. Spokesman Ken Robertson said: "Europe's emphatic win got us out with our nose slightly ahead, however Tiger Woods as 'Top US Points Scorer' did hurt a little and was well supported throughout. Both the holes in one also cost us a few quid, but that's life!"

Europe are already hot favourites for the next Ryder Cup in 2008. Paddy Power quote 8/11 for a European vicory in two years time, with America at Even money, despite having home advantage. A fourth straight win for Europe would certainly leave American golf in disarray. It seems a safe bet to expect a much closer contest next time around.

Ed note: Make your golf and all your sports bets at Bet 365 for a chunky £100 bonus

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