Statistic•Tennis
Ace
An ace is a legal serve that wins the point without the receiver touching the ball.
Plain definition
An ace gives the server the point immediately, without a rally. It can result from pace, placement, spin or disguise. A high ace rate usually signals a major serving weapon, particularly on faster surfaces.
Derived terms
Ace%
The frequency of aces relative to service points played.
Why it matters
Aces provide free points and shorten service games. They contribute to hold rate, reduce exposure in rallies and can be especially valuable on high-pressure points. Ace statistics help identify players capable of imposing their serving rhythm.
Practical example
A player serves wide, the receiver cannot touch the ball and the point ends immediately. The serve is recorded as an ace.
Related terms
Statistic•Tennis
First Serve
The first serve is a player's first service attempt at the start of a point.
Expression•Tennis
Tie-Break
A tie-break is a deciding game used to settle a set that reaches a specified level score, commonly 6-6.
Statistic•Tennis
Second Serve
The second serve is the final service attempt after a first-serve fault.
Statistic•Tennis
Return of Serve
The return of serve is the receiver's first shot in response to the opponent's serve.