How is a Tennis Match Scored?
A tennis match is generally divided into sets, and sets are further divided into games. To win a match, one must win a specific number of sets, usually either two or three, depending on the tournament or competition format. Each set consists of multiple games, and games are comprised of points.
What are Points in Tennis and How are They Scored?
In tennis, players can earn points by winning rallies. A rally starts with a serve and continues until one player fails to return the ball over the net within the court boundaries. Points are scored using the following system:
- Love: When the score is zero, it is called “love” in tennis.
- 15: The first point won by a player is referred to as “15.”
- 30: The second point won by a player is called “30.”
- 40: The third point earned is referred to as “40.”
- Game: If a player wins the next point after reaching “40,” they win the game.
However, a unique scenario arises when both players reach “40” – it is called “deuce.”
What Happens at Deuce?
When the score reaches “40-40” or “deuce,” both players must win two consecutive points to win the game. The first player to score two consecutive points after deuce wins the game. The first point following deuce is called “advantage,” and the player who wins this point gets the “advantage.”
- Advantage server: If the server wins the first point after deuce, they get the advantage.
- Advantage receiver: If the returner wins the first point after deuce, they receive the advantage.
If the player with the advantage wins the subsequent point, they win the game. However, if they lose that point, the score goes back to “deuce,” and the game continues until one player secures the advantage and wins the next point.
Understanding Tiebreaks
In some cases, when a set reaches a tied score, a tiebreak is played to determine the winner of the set. Instead of traditional games, a tiebreak considers points, where players aim to reach seven points with a margin of at least two points. The scoring system in a tiebreak is similar to regular games, starting at zero (or love) and progressing to 15, 30, 40, etc. The first player to reach seven points with the required margin wins the tiebreak and, consequently, the set.
Understanding the scoring system in tennis is crucial to fully enjoy and appreciate the game. With this breakdown of points and the various scenarios that arise during matches, you are now equipped to follow and appreciate the thrilling dynamics of tennis. So, let’s grab our rackets and enjoy this exhilarating sport!