The scoring at Wimbledon, one of the most prestigious and oldest tennis tournaments in the world, follows a unique format that often leaves fans wondering how it is carried out. In this article, we will thoroughly investigate the scoring system used in this event and provide helpful tips for better understanding it while enjoying the exciting matches on the court.
The structure of the scoring system in tennis

Before delving into how it specifically applies at Wimbledon, it is essential to understand the fundamentals of the scoring system in tennis. Through a clear breakdown, we will observe:
The scoring in Wimbledon
Wimbledon uses the traditional scoring format, which can be a bit complicated. The key aspects are detailed below:
Tips for better understanding punctuation
To improve your understanding of scoring in Wimbledon and enjoy the matches more, here are five tips:
Understanding the terms used in tennis scoring is crucial. Knowing the meaning of "deuce," "advantage," and "break point" will help you keep up with the game.
practicalIf you hear a commentator say "deuce," you know that the score is tied and the next player to win a point will have the advantage.
During matches, games and sets can quickly add up. Get familiar with how a player can lose a game but still win the set, or win a set 6-4, which means they won six games while their opponent won four.
practicalWatch how the players recover games and sets to understand the dynamics of the match. There can be several exciting twists.
Different players have different styles and strategies that can influence the score. Some may be stronger in pressure situations, which affects how they handle break points and tiebreak situations.
practicalWhen watching a game, take note of how a player responds in critical situations and how that affects their score.
Understanding how the tiebreaker works will allow you to better follow close matches. At Wimbledon, if a 12-12 score is reached in the final set, the tiebreaker is activated, and they will play until one player wins two more games.
practicalThis means that if a player wins the first game after reaching 12-12, they must win another game consecutively to take the set.
Keeping score during a game can be an excellent way to get involved. Keep track of how the score changes throughout the matches and sets.
practicalUse paper and pencil to jot down punctuation changes while watching a game, which will help you better understand how the game is structured.
Preguntas frecuentes
What is the main difference between Wimbledon and other tennis tournaments in the scoring?
Wimbledon stands out from other tournaments for its specific scoring rules, especially in the final set, which did not have a tiebreaker until...
Why is the term "love" used for zero in tennis?
The origin of the term "love" is debated, but it is said to come from the French "l'oeuf," which means "egg." Apparently, it was introduced in Anglo-Saxon tennis because an egg is a round shape that could represent a zero. Over time, the nomenclature has evolved, and "love" has become the accepted term.
How is it determined who serves at Wimbledon?
The decision of who serves is made through a draw. An umpire asks the players if they prefer to start with the serve or defend one side of the court. This is standard in all tennis tournaments and ensures that neither party has an anticipated advantage.
What happens if there is a tie in games during a set?
If the set reaches a tie in games (6-6), Wimbledon introduces a tiebreak that is played to 7 points. Players must win at least two points to win the tiebreak. This system changes the dynamics of the set, creating tension and excitement.
Does the type of surface matter in the score?
Yes, the type of surface (grass, clay, or hard court) affects the speed of the game, which can influence the scoring. For example, on grass, points tend to be faster, which can give an advantage to the servers.
How do weather conditions affect the score?
Weather conditions, such as wind and rain, can affect the accuracy of shots and the game strategy. Experienced players often adapt better, which can influence their performance and, therefore, the score.
Wimbledon is not only a tournament full of history, but its unique scoring system adds a layer of complexity and excitement that attracts fans from around the world. By understanding its format, you will not only enhance your enjoyment of the matches, but also become a better spectator.