Scoring in tennis is unique but simple once you get the hang of it. Each game starts at 0 (called “love”), and the first point you win takes you to 15, the second to 30, the third to 40, and if you win one more point after 40, you win the game. However, if both players reach 40 (called a “deuce”), you must win two consecutive points to win the game.
Here's a breakdown of the points:
•0 points = Love
•1 point = 15
•2 points = 30
•3 points = 40
•Deuce = 40 points each
When the score is tied at deuce (40-40):
Deuce: Both players are tied with three points each. The game is in a neutral state.
Advantage: After deuce, the next point is crucial. If a player wins this point, they gain an ‘advantage’, meaning they are just one point away from winning the game. They must win by two clear points.
Winning the Game: If the player with the advantage wins the next point, they win the game. However, if they lose the next point, the score goes back to deuce (40-40).
Back to Deuce: The game continues to alternate between ‘advantage’ and ‘deuce’ until one player wins two points in a row. Only then is the game concluded.
Our Tennis Scoring System Resource is a game-changer for busy teachers and PE leaders. Save time with this Ready-to-use one page document that cuts down your preparation time.
Teaching tennis scoring helps children
- Develop cognitive skills through problem solving and mental maths
- Develops sportsmanship by having respect and understanding of the rules
- Build teamwork and collaboration working with opposition to navigate competition in a positive way