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Australian Open to follow Wimbledon by introducing final-set tie-breaks

Switzerland's Roger Federer kisses the winner's trophy after beating Croatia's Marin Cilic in their men's singles final at the Australian Open
Image: Roger Federer won the 2018 Australian Open

The Australian Open is set to follow Wimbledon and introduce final-set tie-breaks.

The change could be introduced in time for the 2019 tournament in January.

However, while at Wimbledon the final-set tie-break is to take place when the score reaches 12-12 in games, in Melbourne they plan to go to a tie-break at 6-6.

The 'super tie-break' will be won by the first player to reach 10 points, with a margin of two.

If Tennis Australia implement this format, it would mean all four majors will operate on slightly different scoring systems.

Players are reportedly being consulted about whether to introduce the 'super tie-break' from 2019 in Australia or trial it during qualifying and junior matches, with a final decision to be made later.

Tennis Australia are seeking to decrease the amount of long-lasting matches during the Open and the move might also help with scheduling, as matches can currently start close to midnight under the current rules.

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