tie-break

/ ˈtaɪˌbreɪkə /

noun

1. tennis a method of deciding quickly the result of a set drawn at six-all, usually involving the playing of one deciding game for the best of twelve points in which the service changes after odd-numbered points

2. any contest or game played to decide a winner when contestants have tied scores

Example Sentences

Although she could not break the obstinate Shibahara's serve, Kartal dominated the tie-break, securing victory on her second match point.

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A tricky set followed with neither player conjuring further break point opportunities and the Pole forcing a tie-break.

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Norrie saved two set points before missing three of his own in an error-strewn tie-break but a double fault from Berkieta then Norrie's pinpoint serve from sealed the 30-year-old the opener.

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She also made waves on her WTA main draw debut last October, when she took Moyuka Uchijima, then ranked 57th, to a third-set tie-break in the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo.

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Defending champion Sabalenka was unable to serve out the match at 5-4, but recovered to dominate the tie-break and seal victory on her third match point.

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