How long do tennis players get between points?
I · Intermediate · Time, coaching, officials and line calls · 6 of 8Checked 13 October 2026
Play is continuous. Players get at most 25 seconds between points, 90 seconds when they change ends and 120 seconds at the end of a set. There is no rest at the change of ends after the first game of a set or during a tie-break.
How it works
| When | Maximum time |
|---|---|
| Between points | 25 seconds, from the end of one point to the first serve of the next |
| Changeover at the end of a game | 90 seconds |
| After the first game of a set, and in a tie-break | No rest; change ends and play on |
| End of a set | 120 seconds |
| Warm-up | 5 minutes, unless the event decides otherwise |
| Optional rest period, if announced | Up to 10 minutes, after the third set in best of five or the second in best of three |
- Events may ask the ITF to extend the 90 and 120 seconds.
- Reasonable extra time is allowed to fix broken clothing, shoes or equipment, but not a racket.
Tricky cases
Is there a shot clock in the rules?
No. The rules set the 25 seconds. Whether a visible clock is used on court, and the penalty for going over, is up to each event.
Can a player take extra time to change a broken racket string?
No. The extra time for broken equipment does not cover the racket. A player may play on with broken strings unless the event forbids it.
Why the rule exists
Fitness is part of tennis. Fixed limits stop a tired player from slowing the match down to recover.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| ITF rules | As above | L29 |
| Tours and Grand Slams | Their own clocks and penalties | Not covered |
From the rule book
ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rules 4 (Case 4) and 29. Checked 13 October 2026. Official document: ITF Rules of Tennis (PDF).