How it works
The next point gives a player advantage. Winning again completes the game, while losing the advantage point returns the score to deuce.
What people often miss
Some formats replace repeated deuce play with a deciding point, so competition rules matter. The unusual scoring language comes from tennis history rather than ordinary arithmetic.
Why this question comes up
Long deuce games can become dramatic because neither player can build the required two-point margin.
Key points
- Deuce is the tied score at 40-40, after which a player usually must win two consecutive points to take the game.
- The next point gives a player advantage. Winning again completes the game, while losing the advantage point returns the score to deuce.
- Some formats replace repeated deuce play with a deciding point, so competition rules matter. The unusual scoring language comes from tennis history rather than ordinary arithmetic.
Bottom line
Deuce is the tied score at 40-40, after which a player usually must win two consecutive points to take the game.
Source and verification
This Answer was checked against International Tennis Federation. Follow the source for the full official explanation and any later updates.