When & Why Do They Change Ends In Tennis?
Tennis may look simple from the stands, but there are small details in the rules that make a big difference. One of these is the regular switching of ends.
If you’ve ever wondered why players swap sides of the court so often, it’s not just tradition — it’s a rule that helps keep matches fair and balanced.
This blog explains exactly when changes happen, why they matter, and how they can even shape the way betting markets are priced during live play.
Why Do They Change Ends in Tennis?
Players change ends because conditions on court are not identical. On outdoor courts, one end may face into the sun, another into the wind.
Even on indoor courts, surface wear can create subtle differences in bounce or footing. Without end changes, one player could potentially hold an advantage throughout an entire set.
The International Tennis Federation (ITF) sets the rules. Players switch ends:
- After every odd-numbered game in a set (1st, 3rd, 5th, etc.).Â
- Between sets, if the previous set ended with an odd total of games (for example, 6–3).Â
- During a tiebreak, after every six points. An alternative method called the Coman tiebreak exists, but is usually less common in UK tournaments.
These changes are not random pauses. They are carefully placed moments to share conditions equally, prevent any unfair advantages, and give players short breaks to regroup.
How Often Do Players Change Ends During a Match?
End changes happen frequently. In a best-of-three sets match, you might see eight to ten changes. In a best-of-five sets match, such as those played at Wimbledon in the men’s singles, there may be fifteen or more.
These moments break up the rhythm of play. A player on a losing run might use the 90-second pause at changeover to reset, while their opponent could lose momentum.
The physical environment also shifts during a match. The sun may move behind clouds, the wind can pick up, or the grass near the baseline may wear down. By alternating sides, both players face these conditions equally.
For spectators following the match through betting, changeovers are often when sportsbooks adjust odds. For example, if a player struggled to serve while facing into the sun, odds for them to hold serve might lengthen until the switch evens things out.
Does Changing Ends Give Players an Advantage?
No side of a tennis court provides a permanent advantage. Because players swap regularly, each end is shared equally across a set. What might create a temporary edge is how well a player adapts to conditions.
Consider an outdoor match where one end faces into a headwind. A player who adjusts by hitting with more topspin might cope better, while their opponent may misjudge the bounce. Over time, though, both players must serve and return from that side, so the rules balance it out.
For bettors, it may be worth remembering that the odds are influenced by these short-term swings, but do not predict outcomes. A price (the number used to calculate possible winnings) is a reflection of probability, not a promise. Even if one player seems disadvantaged from a certain end, sport involves unpredictability, and outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
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