What Is Deuce In Tennis? Meaning, Origin, & Facts
Tennis requires players to be agile, quick-thinking, and adept at hitting the ball with precision and power. One of the most important elements of the game of tennis is the concept of deuce, a term that has been used in the sport for generations. But do you know what deuce truly means in tennis?
If both tennis players are tied at a 40-40 points situation, the receiving player needs to score two consecutive points to win the match. The first point he/she needs to get a serve, and then, another point to win the set. And this situation is called Deuce.
There are several other factors also involved in deuce. Besides, there are many advantages that a player can get while scoring a deuce. So, it’s time to discuss it in detail!
What Is Deuce In Tennis?
Deuce is a term used in tennis to describe a situation where both players are tied at 40-40 or “advantage in” for the receiving player.
This situation is considered critical in a game of tennis as it is the point where one player needs to win two consecutive points to win the game. If the receiving player wins the next point, they are said to have the advantage.
If the serving player wins the point, the score returns to deuce, and the game continues until one player wins two consecutive points.
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Origin Of Deuce In Tennis
The origin of the term deuce in tennis is somewhat unclear. Some believe that it may have originated from the French word “deux,” which means two, while others believe it may have come from the phrase “a deux le jeu,” which means “the game is tied.”
Whatever its origins may be, the term deuce has been used in tennis for many years and is now considered an essential part of the sport.
Advantages Of Deuce In Tennis
Deuce is a critical element of tennis, and it brings many advantages to the game. And it can directly influence the scoring system of Tennis.
First, it adds excitement to the game, as it creates a high-stakes situation where both players are vying to win the game. Many players also try to execute an ace in tennis to win the situation.
Second, it tests the endurance and mental strength of the players, as they must continue to play until one player wins two consecutive points.
Third, it creates an opportunity for comebacks, as a player who is down 40-15 can still come back to win the game if they manage to tie the score at deuce.
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How Many Deuces Are Allowed In A Match?
There is no limit to the number of deuces that can occur in a match. A game can continue in deuce until one player wins two consecutive points, regardless of how many times the score returns to deuce.
However, in professional tennis, where matches can last for several hours, the number of deuces can impact the physical and mental stamina of the players and ultimately affect the outcome of the game. It also impacts the overall duration of tennis matches.
International Tennis Matches with Most Deuces
There are many great tennis players who are known for their amazing deuce and ace points. Here are the five international matches with the most deuces in tennis history:
| Year | Tournament | Match | Deuces |
| 2018 | Australian Open | Rafael Nadal vs. Marin Cilic | 34 |
| 2017 | Australian Open | Rafael Nadal vs. Grigor Dimitrov | 32 |
| 2013 | Australian Open | Novak Djokovic vs. Stan Wawrinka | 30 |
| 2003 | Australian Open | Andy Roddick vs. Younes El Aynaoui | 29 |
| 2019 | Wimbledon | Roger Federer vs. Novak Djokovic | 28 |
Scoring A Deuce In Tennis – A Step-By-Step Guide
Scoring a deuce in tennis is straightforward. Here are the step-by-step instructions for scoring a deuce in tennis:
- Both players have won three points each, resulting in a score of 40-40, or “deuce.”
- The player who wins the next point gets the advantage.
- If the receiving player wins the point, they are said to have an “advantage in.”
- If the serving player wins the point, the score returns to a deuce.
- The game continues until one player wins two consecutive points.
It’s worth noting that the advantage is not a point itself but rather a temporary status that gives the player who wins the next point the opportunity to win the game.
If the player with the advantage loses the next point, the score returns to a deuce, and they must win another point to regain the advantage.
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Most Career Deuces by Top Male and Female Players
Here are the top male and female players who have had the most career deuces in the last 10 years:
Top Male Players:
- Novak Djokovic – 10,057
- Rafael Nadal – 9,183
- Andy Murray – 6,966
- Roger Federer – 6,589
- Stan Wawrinka – 5,175
Top Female Players:
- Serena Williams – 5,791
- Simona Halep – 4,259
- Victoria Azarenka – 4,182
- Petra Kvitova – 3,876
- Angelique Kerber – 3,684
Recently, many newcomers in international tennis also started showing their prominence in scoring deuce. So, tennis pundits are now hopeful that they will see more deuces and match points in the coming future.
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Conclusion
Deuce is a crucial element that adds excitement, tests endurance and mental strength, and creates an opportunity for comebacks. But it is not easy to perfect a deuce or ace in tennis. So, try to practice with consistency and hard work. It is even better if you take guidance from good tennis academies.
So, that’s all for today. Feel free to drop your queries regarding the deuce or give us your suggestions in the comment box below.
