How is sepak takraw scored?
B · Beginner · The game · 2 of 4A set is won by the first side to reach 15 points. At 14-14 the set is extended and won at 17. A match is the best of three sets, with a two-minute break between them. Every rally scores: when either side makes a fault, the other side gets the point.
How it works
- Point for every fault: to the opponent of the side that committed it.
- Set: 15 points.
- At 14-14: the referee announces "Setting up to seventeen points", and the set is won at 17.
- No two-point margin: a set at 14-14 can end 17-16.
- Match: best of three sets. The first side to win two sets wins.
- Breaks: two minutes between sets.
- Service: alternates every point, whoever won it, including at 14-14.
- Third set: the sides change ends when one of them reaches eight points.
The glossary has the set, the match, the setting up to seventeen, the tie break set, the alternating service and the fault.
Tricky cases
The score is 14-14. Does a side need to win by two?
No. The set is won when a side reaches 17, so it can finish 17-16.
The score is 14-13. Is the set extended?
No. The extension applies only at 14-14. At 14-13 the leading side wins the set with its next point.
Is a set played to 21 points?
No, not under the 2024 laws, where each set is won at 15. Older editions used 21, and some reports and websites still quote it.
Does the side that wins a point serve next?
No. Service alternates every point regardless of which side wins it.
Why the rule exists
Short sets suit a game in which a strong server can win points in a rush. Alternating the service every point takes that advantage away from either side. Capping an extended set at 17 keeps matches to a length that fits a tournament day and a television slot.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Normal set | First to 15 | ISTAF Law 12.2 |
| 14-14 | First to 17 | ISTAF Law 12.3 |
| Match | Best of three sets; two-minute breaks | ISTAF Law 12.4 |
| Third set | Change ends at eight points | ISTAF Law 10.8 |
| Volleyball | Sets to 25, won by two clear points | C |
From the rule book
International Sepaktakraw Federation, Law of the Game 2024 (regu event, 1 January 2024), the Glossary (term 20) and Laws 10.3, 10.5, 10.8 and 12. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the federation's Law of the Game (regu).