The Wimbledon tournament, one of the most prestigious in the world of tennis, is not only known for its iconic players and immaculate grass courts, but also for its unique scoring system. Understanding how the scoring works at Wimbledon can seem complicated at first, especially if you are new to the sport or to this prestigious tournament. However, breaking down this system can make it much easier for you to follow the matches, as it differs from the standard scoring you might find in other sporting events.
How does scoring work in Wimbledon?
The scoring at Wimbledon follows the typical tennis scheme, which uses points, games, and sets. But there are some interesting aspects that set it apart.
PuntosIn a game, the score starts at "0", which in tennis terminology is known as "love". The points are counted as follows:
0 (love)
15
30
40
Juego (si el jugador gana el punto siguiente)
VentajaIf both players reach 40, a "deuce" occurs. To win the game, a player needs to win two consecutive points after the deuce.
If a player wins a point, they have "advantage." If they then lose the next point, it goes back to deuce. If they win the next point after having advantage, they win the game.
JuegosTo win a set, a player must win at least six games, but needs an advantage of at least two games. For example, a set can be 6-4, but never 6-5. If both players reach 6 games, a "tiebreak" is played.
TiebreakAt Wimbledon, if the set is tied at 6-6, a tiebreak is played. In the tiebreak, players count points starting from 1. To win, a player needs to reach 7 points, but must have a 2-point advantage. If the tiebreak reaches 6-6, the first player to reach 7 points with a two-point difference wins the tiebreak.
SetsA men's singles match is played as the best of five sets, while women's matches are played as the best of three sets. This means that the first player to win 3 sets (in men's matches) or 2 sets (in women's matches) wins the match.
Tips for keeping track of the Wimbledon score
Get familiar with the terminologyKnowing terms like "love," "deuce," and "break point" can help you better understand what is happening in the match.
Practical: Durante un partido, si escuchas "deuce", es un buen momento para estar atento, ya que un punto puede cambiar el flujo del juego.
Follow the real-time statisticsMany websites and apps offer real-time updates on the score during matches. This can help you stay up to date without having to watch the match live.
Practical: Utiliza aplicaciones como LiveScore o la app oficial de Wimbledon para recibir notificaciones sobre el partido que sigues.
Asiste a los partidos en persona o mira desde casaThe atmosphere at Wimbledon is unique. If you have the chance to attend, you will become even more familiar with the scoring on site.
PracticalObserve how the audience reacts to contested points; this can give you clues about the importance of certain plays.
Practice mentally with games, friends.Play exhibition matches with friends using the Wimbledon scoring system to become familiar with it.
PracticalOrganize a small tournament in your community and use Wimbledon rules to create an authentic atmosphere.
Use social media to continue the conversationMany social media platforms have communities dedicated to tennis where you could learn more about scoring and strategies while matches are in progress.
PracticalJoin tennis groups on Facebook or follow Twitter accounts dedicated to tennis to stay up to date.
Common questions about scoring at Wimbledon
Why does Wimbledon use "15", "30", and "40" instead of simply counting the points?
This scoring system has historical roots and has been part of tennis for centuries. Using terms like "15" and "30" adds a layer of tradition to the game and helps create a unique atmosphere.
What happens if the score reaches 6-6 in a set?
When the score reaches 6-6, a tiebreak is played to determine who wins the set. This tiebreak has its own rules, where a player must win at least 7 points and have a 2-point advantage.
What does "break point" mean?
Un "break point" se refiere a una oportunidad para el receptor de ganar el juego del servidor. Es crucial en un partido, ya que puede cambiar el ritmo del juego si se logra.
Why do men play best of five sets and women play best of three?
This historical difference comes from tradition in tennis and has been the subject of debate in recent years. However, it remains in place in most major tournaments, including Wimbledon.
How is it determined who serves?
Generally, a draw is held before the start of the match to decide who will serve first. This draw is conducted by a referee.
Are there differences in the scoring for doubles matches?
The scoring follows the same scheme as in singles matches, but there are some variations in the rules regarding serves and net calls. It is important to become familiar with these variations if you are going to follow a doubles match.
Knowing this scoring system will provide a new perspective on how matches unfold at Wimbledon. Every point counts and can be decisive in the battle for the title. Enjoy every serve, every "deuce," and every "game" as you immerse yourself in the excitement of one of the most iconic tournaments in the world of tennis.