The Beach TennisTie-Break.
The most disputed part of any match. who serves, when ends change, and what score wins. settled here.
How the Tie-Break Works.
When a set reaches the format’s trigger (commonly 6-6 in games), it is decided by a tie-break, typically the first to 7 points, win by two. A deciding set is often replaced by a 10-point match tie-break (first to 10, win by two).
Serving: ITF Rule 8b
This is where games fall apart. The player whose turn it is serves the first point only. After that, serve alternates every two points, passing between the teams. In doubles it cycles through all four players in order. Lose track for one point and the rest of the tie-break is in dispute.
Changing ends
Teams change ends every multiple of certain points during the tie-break (commonly every 6 points in a 7-point tie-break) to keep sun and wind fair. another thing to remember mid-breaker.
Why people get it wrong
The first-point-then-alternate-every-two pattern is unlike regular tennis tie-breaks for many players, and generic tennis apps apply the wrong rotation. Getting it right by hand means tracking point count, server, and ends all at once.
How BeachTennisRef.App Handles It.
- BeachTennisRef.App applies Rule 8b automatically. it always shows the correct server for the current tie-break point.
- It prompts the change of ends at the right point count, and runs the 10-point match tie-break when the format calls for it.
- Mis-tapped a point in the breaker? Undo it. the serve rotation recalculates correctly.
Common Questions.
The player whose turn it is serves the first point, then serve alternates every two points between the teams (ITF Rule 8b). In doubles it cycles through all four players.
A set tie-break is usually first to 7, win by two. A deciding-set match tie-break is usually first to 10, win by two.
Teams change ends at a set point interval during the tie-break (commonly every 6 points in a 7-point breaker) to keep conditions fair.
Just Play. We'll Keep Score.
Beach tennis scoring with ITF rules built in. serve rotation, the tie-break, ends changes, and a live shareable scoreboard.
First matches free. Any device. No install.