Sports Betting Sites See Fresh Competition as FanDuel, DraftKings and BetMGM Jockey for Top Spot
21 September 2026
FanDuel and DraftKings remain the U.S. sports betting market juggernauts, continuing to top reviews and dominate market share, according to 2024 industry rankings. But BetMGM has emerged as an increasingly formidable rival, pushing rivals to innovate and enhance their products and loyalty offerings.
The market in the U.S. is still young, based on 2024 data, so one might expect FanDuel and DraftKings to continue to increase their dominance. But instead, BetMGM has narrowed the gap, and Caesars has also been noted as a contender by industry analysts.
Why is BetMGM gaining on its heavyweight rivals? The answer is complex, but it is clear that MGM Rewards and BetMGM's Vegas credibility play a major factor. When combined with its product strength and app experience, the company is mounting a serious challenge. While cross-sell opportunities exist for FanDuel and DraftKings, operators are focused on additional ways to attract customers, whether through same-game parlay options, benefits from their other casino holdings, or deeper market coverage. On the app experience and same-game parlays, FanDuel and DraftKings still maintain the lead, but it's clear the competition is intensifying.
Market Leaders and Market Share
FanDuel leads the U.S. market with a 39.3% share and DraftKings is close behind at 34.1%. Those shares have remained consistent, and haven't shifted much, as U.S. sportsbooks continue to establish their foothold. In fact, as recently as this year, DraftKings outperformed even amateur competitors. But BetMGM is gaining traction, which shows significant momentum.
Why BetMGM is Gaining Attention
BetMGM leveraged its expertise in the European market (introducing same-game parlays in the UEFA Europa League in 2020) to craft a U.S. offering that appeals to experienced bettors while attracting new players.
Part of the reason why the platform has been able to gain ground is the backing of the $34 billion MGM Resorts International. The company has expanded its MGM Rewards program to include its online operations in most states, giving sports bettors further incentive to play with them. Users can earn points redeemable at MGM's properties worldwide, whereas competitors have more limited rewards programs tied to specific venues. Additionally, gaming regulators in states like West Virginia have restricted FanDuel's promotional activities to protect local casino-run sportsbooks.
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Product Features Shaping Competition
The market may still be developing, but the top U.S. sportsbooks are refining their products to stand out. FanDuel and DraftKings frequently appear at the top of reviewers' lists, and industry observers note that "FanDuel and DraftKings excel in app speed and prop bets, while BetMGM shines in market depth, live betting, and loyalty benefits." Beyond ease of use, sportsbooks are finding ways to increase wager sizes through more betting options per ticket while also speeding up the betting process.
FanDuel pioneered same-game parlays, and analysts confirm they remain a "key product differentiator." While these products increase operational costs, they've also driven growth in total bets placed.
How Reviewers Rank the Sportsbooks in 2024
This year, experts have focused primarily on mobile app performance as adoption of online gambling apps has skyrocketed. CBS Sports highlighted specific features and crowned FanDuel as the top mobile platform of 2024 thanks to its same-game parlays, seamless wagering experience, and industry-leading app design. However, CBS also recognized DraftKings for its desktop platform and BetMGM for its bonus offerings.
What to Watch Next
As regulators debate allowing sportsbook advertising during games, operators will keep trying to acquire new customers, build loyalty, and incorporate trending products like same-game parlays. Many are counting on regional expertise going forward while ensuring they stay competitive with must-have features expected from top sports betting platforms. The industry will closely monitor key states like Florida as they expand sports betting regulations to gauge market reaction, though FanDuel and DraftKings appear poised to maintain their leadership positions even as BetMGM makes rapid gains.