Changeovers and Changing Ends
Also known as: changeover, changeovers, changing ends in tennis, change ends, switch sides in tennis, switching sides in tennis, set break, changeover break, rest between games
You switch sides after the first game of each set and then after every odd game: the third, fifth, seventh and so on. Each changeover allows up to 90 seconds of rest, except after the first game of a set, when you swap ends without sitting. The break at the end of a set lasts up to 120 seconds.
Rule 10 of the ITF Rules sets when players change ends. You change at the end of the first, third and every later odd game of each set. That keeps the wind, sun and court conditions fair for both sides.
At the end of a set, you change ends only if the set had an odd number of games. A set that ends 6-3 has nine games, so you switch right away. A set that ends 6-4 has ten games, so you stay put and switch after the first game of the next set.
Rule 29 sets the rest times. You get up to 90 seconds at a changeover. After the first game of each set, play is continuous, so you walk straight to the other end. The break between sets is up to 120 seconds. The clock runs from the end of the last point until the next first serve is struck.
In a tiebreak, players change ends after every six points, with no rest. Event organisers can apply to the ITF to lengthen the changeover and set-break times.
Tips by skill level
Count the total games in the set. An odd total means you switch sides now.
Use each 90-second changeover the same way: drink, review one tactic, then stand and reset. A fixed routine keeps a lead or a deficit from rushing you.
Example
Mia wins the first game of the match and walks straight to the other end. After the third game, she sits for a drink, then stands with time to spare before the 90 seconds run out.
Why it matters
Knowing when you switch sides keeps you from losing time or arguing with your opponent. It also lets you plan drinks, towel breaks and tactics around the real rest periods.
Common mistakes
- Sitting down after the first game of a set, when the rules say to swap ends without a rest
- Changing ends after a 6-4 set instead of after the first game of the next set
- Taking a full changeover rest in the middle of a tiebreak
Frequently asked questions
When do you change ends in tennis?
After the first game of each set and then after every odd game. At the end of a set you change only if the set had an odd number of games.
How long is a changeover in tennis?
Up to 90 seconds under the ITF Rules. There is no rest after the first game of a set, and the break between sets is up to 120 seconds.
Do you switch sides after a set in tennis?
Only if the set had an odd number of games, such as 6-3. After a set like 6-4, you switch after the first game of the next set.
Sources
Related terms
- Tiebreak (7-Point)A standard tiebreak decides a set at 6-6, and the first player to seven points wins, as long as they lead by two. The player due to serve takes the first point, then each side serves two points in a row. Players change ends after every six points, and the winner takes the set 7-6.
- Time ViolationA time violation is a penalty for taking too long between points or at a changeover. Under USTA rules the first one is a warning and each one after that costs a point. Pro tours set their own shot-clock penalties.
- Set and Match FormatsMost matches are best of three sets: first to six games, winning by two, with a tiebreak at 6-6. Other approved formats include advantage sets with no tiebreak, short sets to four games, and a deciding match tiebreak instead of a third set. Many US events also use the 8-game pro set.
- Playing in Sun and HeatWhen serving into the sun, shift a little along the baseline or change your stance so the toss is out of the glare, and wear a cap or visor. If the sun catches your toss, catch the ball and toss again; that is not a fault. In the heat, drink at every changeover rather than waiting for thirst, cool down with shade and ice towels, and stop if you feel dizzy, sick or unusually tired.
- Tennis ScoringPoints in a tennis game go love (zero), 15, 30, 40, then game, and the server's score is called first. At 40-40, called deuce, a player must win two points in a row to take the game. The first to six games wins the set by two, usually with a tiebreak at 6-6, and matches are best of three or five sets.
Related guides & benchmarks
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