Tennis · Laws of Tennis
Law 10: Change of Ends
1 parts · 1 tests · 10 facts · updated 12 October 2026 · markdown
When players change ends: after the odd games of a set, at the end of a set or after the first game of the next one, and during a tie-break.
10.101Change of Ends
Changing ends in a set, between sets and in a tie-break game.
Test 1When the players change endsTake a test
Ends change after games 1, 3, 5 and so on.
Source: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 10 · recall
Nine games is an odd total, so they change as the set ends.
Source: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 10 · applied
Ten games is an even total, so the change waits one game.
Source: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 10 · applied
In a standard tie-break they switch each time six more points have been played.
Source: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 10 · recall
The alternative switches ends sooner and more often.
Source: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Appendix VI (Change of ends) · recall
The tie-break counts as one game, making 13.
Source: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 10 · applied
Three games is odd, so ends change.
Source: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 10 · applied
Players stay put for the opening game of the next set, then switch.
Source: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 10 · applied
One point, then every four.
Source: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Appendix VI (Change of ends) · applied
Ends change after odd-numbered games only, and four is even.
Source: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 10 · applied
Sources
ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 10 with Appendix VI (paraphrased in original wording; original questions authored from the Rules, not reproduced)
- ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 108
- ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Appendix VI (Change of ends)2