Wimbledon has introduced a novelty for next season. In a 5th set, the men will now play a tiebreak in a 12-12 position. Marathon matches such as the legendary match between Isner and Mahut should be a thing of the past. :( :( :(
In 2010, John Isner and Nicolas Mahut were on the grass for 11 hours and 5 minutes. The longest game in the history of Wimbledon ended at 70-68 in the 5th set. Isner also played a marathon party this year. This time, after 6 hours and 35 minutes and 26-24, he had to bow his head against Kevin Anderson.
After that match, the players wished to enter for a tiebreak and their wish did not fall on deaf ears. In consultation with the players it was decided to switch to a tiebreak in a deciding set in a 12-12 position.
Wimbledon is the second Grand Slam tournament that introduces the tiebreak in the fifth set. This is already happening at the US Open. There is also a tie break in the last set in a 6-6 position. At the Australian Open and Roland Garros fans can still hope for marathon races. There the rule remains that the last set with two games difference has to be won.
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