The match format in USTA Level 7 junior tournaments is designed to be more accessible and less time-consuming than higher-level tournaments, making it ideal for beginner to intermediate players. This format is particularly beneficial for junior players as it keeps matches competitive yet manageable, encourages quick decision-making, and reduces the physical and mental strain of longer matches. It’s also spectator-friendly and allows tournaments to accommodate more matches in a limited time frame.Here’s a more detailed look at the format:

Best-of-Three Sets with a Match Tiebreak

• Regular Sets: The first two sets are played as regular sets, typically to 4 games instead of the standard 6, with a tiebreak if the set reaches 4-4.
• Match Tiebreak: If players split the first two sets, a match tiebreak (sometimes referred to as a “super tiebreak”) is played in lieu of a full third set. This tiebreak is usually played to 10 points, with a margin of two points for victory.

No-Ad Scoring

• Deciding Point: In no-ad scoring, when the game score reaches deuce (40-40), the next point is the deciding point. This means there are no advantages played after deuce.
• Server’s Choice: The server chooses from which side of the court the deciding point is played.
• Receiver’s Choice in Doubles: In doubles, the receiving team decides who will return the serve on the deciding point.

Short Sets

• First to 4 Games: In Level 7 tournaments, sets are often played to 4 games instead of 6. If the score reaches 4-4, a tiebreak is played.
• Set Tiebreak: The set tiebreak is typically played to 7 points, and a player or team must win by 2 points.

Match Tiebreak (Super Tiebreak)

• Played Instead of Third Set: If the match is tied at one set all, a match tiebreak is played.
• First to 10 Points: This tiebreak is played to 10 points instead of 7, with a player or team needing to win by 2 points.
• Decides the Match: The winner of the match tiebreak wins the match.

General Rules

• Continuous Play: Matches are expected to proceed with minimal breaks.
• Changeovers: Players change ends of the court every odd game of the set. In a tiebreak, players change ends after every 6 points.

Adaptations for Younger Players

• Ball Type: Depending on the age division, different types of balls may be used, such as standard yellow balls, green dot balls, or orange balls.
• Court Size: For very young players (under 10), the match may be played on a smaller court.