Deuce in tennis is a critical scoring situation that occurs when a game is tied at 40-40. The primary point of deuce is to ensure that a player must win by a margin of two clear points to secure the game, rather than just one. This rule prolongs closely contested games, requiring players to demonstrate a distinct advantage to win.
When Deuce Occurs in a Tennis Game
A game enters the "deuce" state specifically when both players have won three points each, resulting in a score of 40-40. This is the only score that initiates the deuce rule, irrespective of how many times the score returns to 40-40 during an extended game.How to Win a Game from Deuce
Once a game reaches deuce, the standard scoring system is temporarily suspended, and a new dynamic takes over:- Gain Advantage: A player must first score a point immediately after deuce to gain "advantage." This point gives them a one-point lead.
- Win the Next Point: If the player who gained the advantage then wins the next point as well, they win the game. This fulfills the requirement of winning by two clear points.
- Return to Deuce: If the player who did not have the advantage wins the point, the score reverts back to deuce (40-40), and the process of gaining and consolidating advantage begins again. This can lead to extended, back-and-forth games.
Understanding "Advantage" (Ad-In/Ad-Out)
After deuce, the next point scored results in one player having the "advantage." This is often announced as:- Advantage Server (Ad-In): When the player serving wins the point after deuce.
- Advantage Receiver (Ad-Out): When the player returning serves wins the point after deuce.
This signifies that the player with advantage is just one point away from winning the game, provided they win the next rally. If they fail to win the next point, the score returns to deuce, prolonging the game.
Score Progression from Deuce
The table below illustrates the typical scoring progression once a game reaches deuce:| Score | Description | Action Required for Win |
|---|---|---|
| 40-40 (Deuce) | Both players have won three points each. | Player must win two consecutive points. |
| Ad-In / Ad-Out | One player scores after deuce, gaining the "advantage." | That player needs to win the next point. |
| 40-40 (Deuce Again) | If the player without advantage wins the point, the score reverts to deuce. | The process repeats from deuce until one player wins two consecutive points. |
| Game | The player who had advantage successfully wins the subsequent point, securing the game. | Game ends. |
