SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/tennis-double-fault-loses-point
What happens when a server misses both the first and second serve?
The server loses the point. That is a double fault.
- The server gets a third try
- The point is replayed
- The server loses the point ✔
Why: You get two tries to put a serve in. If you serve two faults in a row, you lose the point, which is called a double fault.
Huh, didn't know that: That is why many players hit a big first serve and a safer, slower second serve.
I served two faults in a row and blamed my racket. It said it was not its fault, it was mine. Twice.
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References
Answer: The server loses the point. You get two tries to put a serve in. If you serve two faults in a row, you lose the point, which is called a double fault.
- ITF 2026 Rules of Tennis, Rule 24 Player Loses Point www.itftennis.com/media/7221/2026-rules-of-tennis-english.pdf
The player serves two consecutive faults
Checked 2026-10-12.
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