Tennis scoring system
Tennis has a unique scoring system that beginners often find confusing. Here's how it works in detail.
Points
A tennis match is first played by points. Scores are counted as:
- 0 points = 0 (love)
- 1 point = 15
- 2 points = 30
- 3 points = 40
- 4 points = wins the game (except at 40-40)
At 40-40, it's deuce. You then need to win 2 points in a row to win the game: the first point is called "advantage."
Games
A player wins a game by scoring 4 points (15, 30, 40, game). After winning a game, the serve changes. A set consists of multiple games.
Sets
A player wins a set by winning 6 games with at least a 2-game lead. For example, 6-4 or 6-3. If the score reaches 6-6, a tiebreak is usually played.
Tiebreak
A tiebreak is a mini-game that decides the set when the score is 6-6. Instead of regular points (15, 30, 40), points are counted 1, 2, 3, etc. The first to reach 7 points with a 2-point lead wins the tiebreak and the set 7-6.
Match structure
A match is usually won by winning 2 sets out of 3 (women and amateur matches) or 3 sets out of 5 (men's professionals).
With DEUCE
On DEUCE, you simply enter the points during the match and the system automatically handles games, sets and the final result. No need to do the math yourself!