Sunday, December 23, 2018

Australian Open to introduce final set 10 point tie-breaks for the WTA at 2019 Championships

The Australian Open will introduce final-set tiebreaks from next month.

The deciding set in singles and doubles will draw to a conclusion after 6-6 using the longer of the tiebreak formats – first to 10 points.

The decision comes following the most extensive consultation in the tournament’s history.

“We asked the players – both past and present, commentators, agents and TV analysts whether they wanted to play an advantage final set or not, and went from there,” Australian Open Tournament Director Craig Tiley said.

“We went with a 10-point tiebreak at six games all in the final set to ensure the fans still get a special finale to these often epic contests, with the longer tiebreak still then allowing for that one final twist or change of momentum in the contest. This longer tiebreak also can lessen some of the serving dominance that can prevail in the shorter tiebreak.

“We believe this is the best possible outcome for both the players and the fans around the world,” Tiley added.

The Australian Open 2019, the first Slam of the season, will take place at Melbourne Park from January 14 to 27.

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