There’s a rumor floating about that bingo has lost its charm, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. In reality, bingo remains incredibly popular, with a steady influx of newcomers discovering the game everyday.
In this article, we compare bingo to tennis to explore their popularity and, ultimately, determine which of the two reigns supreme.
Popularity of Bingo
A little known fact is that bingo is older than tennis. Bingo’s origins can be traced back to 16th century Italy where a similar game called “Il Giuoco del Lotto d’Italia” gained popularity. Since then the actual game play and rules have changed very little.
The popularity of online bingo has skyrocketed over the past few years, mainly due to digital advancements and the new exciting venues for this game. The convenience of online bingo has seen an influx of new online bingo platforms, which attract players from all over the world.
Part of the allure of bingo is undoubtedly the ability to win real money jackpots. What makes it even more appealing is that they can be won from the comfort of your own home.
In terms of numbers, research shows that in the UK around 1.7 million people play tennis regularly, but that 1.9 million are frequent bingo daubers. Traditionally bingo is often associated with Christmas, so the number of gamers peaks during the month of December.
Popularity of Tennis
Tennis, although directly descended from the jeu de paume, was formally designed and codified in England during the 1870s.
Tennis is a game that requires discipline, time, skill, equipment, space, and most importantly practice. To get to a stage where you can make enough basic shots to maintain a rally, it will take about a year of practice and dedication. This also depends on how often you play and how much time you are willing to spend practicing and if you have access to a coach.
Due to this level of skill, professional tennis players have become global superstars with icons like Roger Federer, Serena Williams, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovi commanding huge salaries and a worldwide following.
Major tournaments like Wimbledon and the US Open are broadcast worldwide, attracting millions of viewers. These tournaments have encouraged a new generation of players to try their hand at the sport.
Popularity in the Digital Age
Bingo and Tennis have both used technology to expand their reach.
Bingo
As previously mentioned online bingo platforms have brought bingo to a new, younger audience. Online bingo allows players to enjoy a game whenever they have a spare few moments. As well as the promise of big wins, players can have an immersive experience via interactive chat features and live-streamed games. Digital advancements have been nothing short of revolutionary for the bingo industry and have breathed new life into the game.
Tennis
Tennis have also embraced digital platforms, by making matches accessible to fans worldwide through streaming services. Fans can follow their favorite players and events in real time, expanding the sport’s global presence. For those who want a game of tennis but aren’t keen on physical exertion, there are a variety of tennis games that can be played on mobile devices and consoles without breaking a sweat.
Conclusion
Bingo is much lower-maintenance and can be played online. Which is the reason more people play bingo than tennis.
Not only is bingo a much simpler game to grasp than tennis, it is also more affordable to play. Personal preference is always more important than popular opinion when deciding on a past-time to pursue. Whether it is bingo or tennis, the most important part is for you to enjoy it truly.