First to 7
What is a First to 7 in padel?
Standard tiebreak format, first to 7 points with 2-point margin.
Definition
First-to-7 is the standard tiebreak format in padel, played when games reach 6-6. The tiebreak is won by the first player to reach 7 points with a 2-point margin. If the score reaches 6-6 in points, play continues until one player achieves a 2-point lead. Service rotation is special in tiebreaks: the player whose turn it would be serves the first point, then alternates every two points (A, B, B, A, A, B, B, A, etc.). The first-to-7 format is standard across FIP, Premier Padel, and most professional padel tournaments. A first-to-7 tiebreak typically lasts 3-8 minutes depending on point length and court speed. Tiebreaks are psychologically intense: every point carries maximum weight. Serving is critical in tiebreaks; the advantage of serving can be significant.
Origin: Derived from tennis tiebreak format; standard in padel since the sport's formalization.
When to use it
Played at 6-6 in games; fundamental to match completion.
Common questions
If the tiebreak score is 7-6, is the match over?
No. If 7-6, the player with 7 only has a 1-point lead. Play continues to 8-7, then 9-8, etc. until someone has a 2-point lead.
Who serves first in a tiebreak?
The player whose turn it would be to serve the next game. The serve rotates every two points.