Origins of Scoring
Tennis scoring may trace back to medieval France, where a clock face was used. Points progressed in increments of 15, possibly reflecting the quarters of an hour.
Game, Set, Match
The terms 'game', 'set', and 'match' represent the structure of tennis contests. A player wins a 'game' by points, a 'set' by games, and a 'match' by sets.
Love and Deuce
'Love' for zero points may come from 'l'oeuf', the French word for egg, symbolizing nothing. 'Deuce' indicates a tie, possibly deriving from 'à deux le jeu', meaning 'to both is the game'.
Advantage Scoring
After deuce, 'advantage' scoring comes into play. It requires a player to win by two consecutive points, a rule likely designed to increase challenge and uncertainty in match outcomes.
No Ad Scoring
In 'no-ad' scoring, the first player to win four points wins the game, eliminating the two-point lead requirement. This speeds up matches, commonly used in college tennis.
Tiebreak Evolution
Introduced in the 1970s, tiebreaks resolve set ties without lengthy deuce games. Players alternate serves, and the first to seven points, leading by two, wins the set.
Scoring Language
Tennis scoring terms like 'ace' and 'break point' have evolved into a unique lexicon. 'Ace' for a serve not touched by the opponent, and 'break point' indicating a game-winning opportunity.
What reflects a clock's quarter in scoring?
Increment by games
15-point progression
Set tiebreakers
Company
