**In tennis, what is the terminology for a 6-6 score in a set before a tie-break?**
Verified**Explanation:**
When a tennis set reaches a 6-6 score, the terminology used is indeed "tie-break." This situation occurs when both players have won exactly six games each in a set, creating a deadlock that needs to be resolved through a special scoring system.
In traditional tennis scoring, a player typically needs to win a set by securing at least six games and maintaining a two-game lead over their opponent. However, when the score reaches 6-6, neither player has achieved this required margin. This is where the tie-break system comes into play to determine the winner of the set efficiently.
The tie-break was introduced to tennis in 1970 by James Van Alen and was officially adopted by major tournaments to prevent sets from continuing indefinitely. During a tie-break, players compete in a race to reach seven points, but they must win by at least two points. The scoring in a tie-break follows a numerical system (1, 2, 3, 4, etc.) rather than the traditional tennis scoring (15, 30, 40).
Some key features of the tie-break system include alternating serves every two points, with the first player serving only one point to start. Players also switch sides of the court when the total points reach six, and then every six points afterward. The winner of the tie-break wins the set with a final score of 7-6.
It's worth noting that in some tournaments, particularly at Grand Slam events, the final set might have different rules. For instance, some tournaments now use a super tie-break (first to 10 points) or continue regular games until one player achieves a two-game advantage, depending on the specific tournament regulations.
