match point

[mach point, mach point]

noun

1. (in tennis, squash, handball, etc.) the point that if won would enable the scorer or the scorer's side to win the match.

2. Duplicate Bridge.,  a scoring unit consisting of one point awarded to a partnership for each opposing partnership whose score they better on a hand and of one-half point for each opposing partnership whose score they equal.

match point

noun

1. sport the final point needed to win a match

2. bridge the unit used for scoring in tournaments

Word History and Origins

Origin of match point¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

However, the composure of Navarro, who saved two match points against Kazakhstan in the quarter-finals, to save two break points in the opening game of the third set proved crucial.

From BBC

The 27-year-old furiously fought off Pegula's attempts to break back and let out a huge roar after wrapping up the victory on her third match point.

From BBC

Czech Krejcikova, a two-time Grand Slam singles champion, represented a dangerous opponent after recovering from a set down and saving eight match points against Taylor Townsend in the previous round.

From BBC

Bublik could not handle the pace being thrown at him, before his double fault on Sinner's first match point summed up a difficult evening.

From BBC

With Medvedev facing match point in the third set, Bonzi missed on his first serve and was preparing for the second when a photographer appeared to mistakenly step onto the court.

From Los Angeles Times