match point

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match point

The player serves for match point in the final set.

Definition

Noun: 1. The final point needed to win a match: In sports, especially tennis, squash, or badminton, it is the specific point that, if won by the leading player or team, will result in them winning the entire match. 2. A decisive or critical moment: By extension, it can describe any crucial moment that will determine the final outcome of a contest or situation.

Usage
  • The term is primarily used in the context of racket sports but can be understood in other competitive scenarios.
  • It is a countable noun.
  • It often creates high tension, as winning or losing this point decides the match.
Examples
  • In Sports:
    • The crowd fell silent as the player prepared to serve for match point.
    • She saved three consecutive match points before finally winning the game.
  • In Extended Use:
    • The final negotiation was the match point for the merger deal.
    • This vote is the match point for the proposed legislation.
Advanced Usage
  • "To be at match point": To be in the position of needing one more point to win the match.
    • After a long rally, she found herself at match point.
  • "To save/match point": To win a point when the opponent is at match point, thereby preventing them from winning the match.
    • The defending champion saved a match point with an incredible backhand.
  • "To convert/match point": To successfully win the point when one has match point.
    • He converted his first match point with a powerful ace.
Variants and Related Words
  • Set point (n): The point which, if won, wins a set (but not the entire match).
    • He missed an easy volley on set point.
  • Championship point (n): A match point that would win a championship title.
    • The stadium erupted when she won on championship point.
  • Game point (n): The point which, if won, wins a single game within a set.
    • She double-faulted on her first game point.
Synonyms
  • Deciding point: A point that decides the outcome.
  • Clincher: (Informal) Something that conclusively settles an issue or contest.
Related Phrases
  • On the brink of victory: Very close to winning.
  • The final hurdle: The last obstacle before success.
Idioms

While not a traditional idiom, the phrase "It's match point" is used metaphorically to indicate a critical, do-or-die moment in any context. - With only one day before the deadline, it's match point for our project.

match point

The player serves for match point in the final set.

Noun
  1. (tennis) the final point needed to win a match (especially in tennis)