We have finally arrived at two tie-break related questions that for whatever reason seem to completely befuddle a significant number of players. The first question is who serves first after a tie-breaker. The second question is from which side.
By my reading, the rules on this are very straight forward and clear. However, I have frequently found myself engaged in matches where at least one other person on the court has an alternate understanding of the correct procedure and is galvanized into that position. I have also personally witnessed umpires getting this one wrong.
Hark! I bring glad tidings of great joy that this problem has been finally solved once and for all. Allow me to introduce the official Fiend at Court bag tag, that is imprinted with the exact wording from the ITF rules that govern this situation.
Basically the tag has everything you need to know about how to correctly start the subsequent set following a tie-breaker. As a bag tag, it will be conveniently accessible on the outside of the racquet bag for quick reference when needed.
The order has been placed, and the bag tags are a reality. I am still working through exactly how they will be distributed, but anyone who submits a comment and/or who registers as a follower of this blog are at the top of the queue. Probably the best way to get one is to tell me that you either read (perhaps even like?) my blog the next time you run into me.
(Disclaimer: While supplies last.)
- United States Tennis Association (2020) Friend at Court. White Plains, NY
