Star Point
Also known as: star point padel, star point rule, star point scoring, third deuce
Star Point is a deuce format in the FIP Rules of Padel. At deuce a pair gets two chances to win the game with advantage. If the game reaches deuce a third time, a single deciding point is played, and the receiving pair chooses which side receives it.
The 2026 FIP rules list three ways to score a game: advantage, Star Point and Golden Point. Under Star Point, the first deuce is called "deuce 1." Winning the next point gives "advantage 1," and winning again takes the game. Losing it returns the score to "deuce 2," with a second chance at advantage. If that advantage is also lost, the score goes to "deuce 3." The Star Point then decides the game.
On the Star Point, the receiving pair chooses whether to receive on the right or the left. The receivers cannot change positions for that point. In mixed matches, the player receiving must be the same sex as the server. The pair that wins the Star Point wins the game.
Star Point sits between the two older options. It keeps some of the tension of advantage scoring but caps how long a game can run. Golden Point plays one deciding point at the very first deuce. Events and clubs choose which option they use. Confirm it before the match starts.
Tips by skill level
Before the first game, ask whether the match uses advantage, Star Point or Golden Point. Under Star Point, count the deuces out loud.
Plan the Star Point like a Golden Point. Choose the side of your stronger returner and agree on a safe return target in advance.
Example
At deuce 3, the receiving pair picks the side of their stronger returner. She takes the serve on the left, lobs the return deep, and they win the Star Point and the game.
Why it matters
Star Point changes how long games last and which point decides them. Knowing the format helps you plan the deciding point and avoid scoring disputes.
Common mistakes
- Playing a deciding point at the first deuce under Star Point rules
- Changing receiving positions for the Star Point
- Not agreeing on the deuce format before the match
Frequently asked questions
What is the Star Point in padel?
It is a deuce format in the FIP rules. You get two advantage chances. If the game reaches deuce a third time, one deciding point is played, and the receiving pair chooses which side receives.
How is Star Point different from Golden Point?
Golden Point plays one deciding point at the first deuce. Star Point allows two rounds of advantage first and plays the deciding point only at the third deuce.
Who chooses the side on the Star Point?
The receiving pair chooses whether to receive on the right or the left. They cannot swap positions for that point. In mixed matches, the receiver must be the same sex as the server.
Sources
Related terms
- Padel Scoring SystemPadel uses the same point, game, and set structure as tennis. That means 15, 30, 40, game, best of three sets, with a tiebreak at 6 games all. The common difference is how deuce is played. The FIP rules allow advantage scoring, Star Point (two chances at advantage, then a deciding point) or the Golden Point (one deciding point at 40–40).
- Golden Ball – Punto de OroThe Golden Ball (Punto de Oro) is a sudden-death deciding point played when a game reaches deuce (40–40). The receiving pair chooses which player will receive the serve.
- Golden Point StrategyGolden Point strategy is how a pair plans the single sudden-death point at 40–40. It covers who serves, who receives, and which serve target and shot pattern to commit to.
- Golden PointA Golden Point in padel refers to any single decisive point at a critical juncture of a match. Most commonly the Punto de Oro at game deuce — where the outcome of the point decides the game, set, or match.
Related guides & benchmarks
Have a question about this?
There is nothing here to film. Ask SwingVantage a follow-up question, or keep reading the related terms above.