Tennis is a fascinating sport that combines physical skills with mental strategies. However, for many new fans, the scoring system can be confusing. On this occasion, we are going to break down how the scoring in tennis works, providing useful tips and techniques so you can follow and enjoy this sport to the fullest.
Comprendiendo el sistema de puntuación del tenis
The scoring system in tennis is unique and has its own rules. Here, we will break down how it works:
Un juego se compone de puntos, que se anotan de la siguiente manera:
The first point won is "15."
The second point won is "30."
The third point won is "40".
The fourth point won in a game is the point that gives the player the game, unless both players are at 40, which is called "deuce."
Ejemplo:
Si un jugador gana el primer punto, el marcador se convierte en
When both players have won 40 points, "deuce" is reached. From this point, a player must win two consecutive points to win the game. The first point won after deuce is called "advantage."
Si el jugador con ventaja pierde el siguiente punto, el marcador regresa a deuce.
Si gana el siguiente, entonces gana el juego.
Ejemplo:
En un deuce, un jugador gana un punto y se coloca en ventaja. Si el jugador pierde el siguiente punto, vuelven al deuce. Si gana nuevamente, entonces se apunta el juego.
A tennis match is made up of sets, which in turn are made up of games. To win a set, a player must win at least six games and have at least a two-game advantage over their opponent.
Ejemplo:
If a player wins 6-4, this player wins the set. If both players reach 6-6, a "tiebreak" is played.
If a set reaches a 6-6 tie, a tiebreak is played to determine the winner of the set. In the tiebreak, players play points numbered in a varying order, and the first to win 7 points with at least a 2-point difference wins the set.
Ejemplo:
A typical tiebreak score could be 7-5, where a player has won the tiebreak and, therefore, the set.
Tennis matches can be best of three sets or best of five sets, depending on the tournament and category. In a best-of-three match, the first player to win two sets wins the match. In a best-of-five match, winning three sets is required.
Consejos para seguir y entender el juego
Below, we share five tips that will help you improve your understanding of the tennis scoring system and how to enjoy matches even more:
To familiarize yourself with points, games, and sets, follow a live scoreboard during a match. This will allow you to see how the changes happen in real time and better understand how the events unfold.
The best way to understand the rules is to play tennis. Getting involved in a game will allow you to experience the scoring system and clear up any confusion you may have.
Nowadays, there are many mobile applications that can help you become familiar with the rules of tennis. Look for apps that offer explanations and simulations of the scoring system.
By watching broadcasted matches and following expert commentary, you can learn about the scoring system. Analysts often explain the context of the points and the strategies behind them.
Generally, your country's Tennis Association has a rulebook. This document is usually detailed and can clarify questions about the scoring system.
Preguntas comunes sobre la puntuación en el tenis
This is a historical aspect of tennis that has been maintained over the years. Originally, it is believed that points were counted this way for convenience and tradition, and it has become part of the sport's charm.
If both players keep winning points at "deuce," the game can be prolonged. Theoretically, a game could continue indefinitely if the players are equally competitive on each point.
Tournaments usually follow the same scoring rules, but the formats may vary. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the rules of that particular tournament.
In the event that both players reach 66, a "tiebreak" is played to decide who wins the set. The tension at this moment can be very exciting for both the players and the spectators.
Yes, the tiebreak is considered a game and counts towards the total number of games in a set. The player who wins the tiebreak wins that set.
This depends on the type of tournament and the category of the match. Grand Slam tournaments are typically best of five for men, while most other tournaments are usually best of three for everyone.
With a better understanding of the scoring system, you can enjoy and appreciate tennis more, whether as a player or a spectator. Remember that practice makes perfect; the more you play and watch, the more you will understand!