Tennis is a fascinating sport that has captured the attention of millions of fans around the world. However, one aspect that often confuses new spectators is the scoring system used during matches. In this comprehensive guide, we will break down how tennis scores work, providing a clear understanding for both novice and experienced fans.
How is tennis scored?
Tennis uses a unique scoring system that may seem complicated, but is quite logical once understood. The scoring is divided into sets, games, and points. Here we explain each of these elements:
Each game in tennis starts at zero, which is represented as "0". As players win points, the score advances as follows:
The first point won is counted as "15".
The second point is counted as "30"
The third point as "40"
If the player wins the fourth point, they win the game, unless both players are tied at 40, in which case it is called "deuce".

Ejemplo:
Player A wins the first point: 150
Player B wins the second point: 15-15
Player A wins the third point: 30-15
Player A wins the fourth point: 40-15
If Player B wins the next point, the score becomes
A tennis set consists of several games. A player must win at least six games to win a set, but they must also have a lead of at least two games. For example, if the score is 5-5, a player must win the next two games to win the set.
Ejemplo:
Player A wins the six games: 64
Player B manages to tie at six games: 66 and goes into a tiebreak.
The tiebreak is usually played until a player reaches 7 points, but with a difference of
3. Sets
To win a match, a player needs to defeat their opponent in a certain number of sets. The most common formats are:
Al mejor de tres sets (en torneos femeninos y muchos torneos masculinos)
Al mejor de cinco sets (torneos del Grand Slam masculinos)
Ejemplo:
Player A wins the first set 6-3, the second set 7-5, and thus wins the match.
In addition to the basic scoring system, there are some additional rules that can influence how points and games are counted:
TiebreakWhen the score reaches 6-6 in sets, a tiebreak is played.
Match pointThe opportunity to win a game. If a player is one point away from winning and their score is high (like 40-30 or deuce), that point can be crucial.
Break point: Una oportunidad para que el jugador rompa el servicio del oponente, lo cual es crucial durante los juegos.
Ejemplo de puntuaciones en un partido real
Let's imagine a match from the early stages of a Grand Slam tournament. The first set begins, and the players are very evenly matched.
El Jugador A empieza fuerte, gana el primer juego y luego pierde el segundo.
After a hard-fought battle, the set ends 7-5 in favor of Player A.
El Jugador B no se da por vencido y pega fuerte en el segundo set,
Through this example, you can observe how a narrative unfolds in the game of tennis, making the tracking of the game exciting as well.
5 Techniques to improve your understanding of the tennis scoring system
Nothing will help you understand a system better than seeing it in action. By watching live professional tennis matches, you can follow the scoring and become familiar with the flow of the game.
Practical exampleVisit a local tournament or watch a game on television and pay attention to how the scores are managed.
There are numerous available apps that offer real-time tracking of tennis matches. These apps can help you understand how the scores change during the game.
Practical exampleDownload an app that specializes in sports to follow live scores.
Knowing the tennis lexicon is essential. Terms like "deuce," "advantage," and "tiebreak" will make much more sense when you understand them.
Practical exampleMake a list of terms and their meanings as you watch informative videos about tennis.
If you like tennis, playing with friends can be a good way to learn. While you play, try to keep track of the score.
Practical exampleHave a practice match at a local club and keep track of the points and games with friends.
Watch how sports commentators explain the scoring during games. This will help you capture variations and nuances in the explanations that may not be evident at first.
Practical exampleWatch commented games and pay attention to the score explanations in order to learn their dynamics.
Preguntas frecuentes sobre las puntuaciones en el tenis
This system has historical roots that date back to the origin of tennis. The "15", "30", and "40" likely come from the way points were marked on a clock.
When a player wins a set 6-0, it is referred to as a "bagel set". This can be very embarrassing for the opponent and demonstrates absolute dominance.
If a game is suspended due to bad weather, the rules may vary depending on the tournament. Generally, the game is resumed from the point at which it was interrupted.
The tiebreak is generally activated in the case of a 6-6 tie in a set. This is a mini-game in which the first player to reach 7 points, with at least a 2-point advantage, wins the set.
The third set often becomes decisive, especially in formats where the best of three is played. The pressure on each player can lead to unexpected performance or an outburst of emotions.
The referee is responsible for ensuring that the rules of the game are followed. Their role includes making decisions about fouls, reviewing scores, and maintaining order during the match.
In conclusion, understanding the scoring system of tennis can enrich your experience, whether you are a casual spectator or a die-hard fan. From knowing the basic terms to understanding how to score during a game, every detail adds to the fascination that people have with this sport. It's time to enjoy tennis and continue learning more about this exciting game!
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