Classic deuce
Unlimited deuce cyclesThe longest format. Rewards consistency and repeated pressure handling.
guide / scoring
Star Point in padel: what happens at 40–40?
Follow the two-advantage sequence, see when the deciding Star Point is played, and check who receives the serve under the 2026 FIP rules.
Quick answer
Star Point allows two chances to win a game through advantage. If both advantages are cancelled, the next point decides the game. It is different from Golden Point, which uses a deciding point at the first deuce.
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Quick format comparison
Use this as a pre-match reference so both pairs agree the format before the first serve.
Silver point
Limited deuce extensionA balanced pace that keeps tactical depth while reducing very long games.
Star point 2026
Structured deciding phaseKeeps the pressure moment while preventing an endless deuce loop.
A worked example
Imagine your pair is serving at 40–40:
| Next point | Winner | Score afterwards |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Your pair | First advantage to you |
| 2 | Opponents | Second deuce |
| 3 | Opponents | Second advantage to them |
| 4 | Your pair | Third deuce: Star Point next |
| 5 | Either pair | That pair wins the game |
The game can finish earlier
Had your pair won points one and two, you would already have won the game. The final deciding point is needed only when both advantage opportunities have been cancelled. This example is an illustration of the sequence, not a claim about likely match outcomes.
Who receives the deciding serve?
The receiving pair chooses the side, while each receiver keeps their established receiving position. In mixed doubles, FIP requires the deciding-point receiver to be the same sex as the server. See Rule 1, Star Point option, in the 2026 FIP rules linked below.
Avoid the common mix-up
“Two advantages” means two advantage opportunities in total during that game’s deuce sequence. It does not mean each pair gets two advantages. The worked example shows the first opportunity going to one pair and the second to the other.
Before a social match, agree the deuce format aloud. A useful call is: “Star Point today: two advantages, then the decider.” This is a suggested communication habit, not an additional formal rule.
Keep a reference beside the court
The free Padel Pointer rules PDF puts the scoring formats and tie-break order in one printable guide. Save it before your next match, or use the scoring-formats hub to look up a specific question. Both are linked below.
If you want a record of the match afterwards, Padel Pointer offers Apple Watch scoring and match history on iPhone.
Frequently asked questions
How many advantage opportunities does Star Point allow?
Two in total during the game’s deuce sequence. If the pair with advantage wins the following point, the game ends. If both advantages are cancelled, one deciding Star Point follows.
How is Star Point different from Golden Point?
Golden Point uses one deciding point at the first deuce. Star Point allows two advantage opportunities before a deciding point is needed.
Can the receiving pair swap sides for the Star Point?
No. The receiving pair chooses the receiving side, but its players retain their established receiving positions. In mixed doubles the receiver must be the same sex as the server.
Sources and evidence
- 2026 FIP Rules of Padel — Rule 1, Star Point
Checked 16 October 2026
Specifies two advantage opportunities, a deciding point at the third deuce, receiving-side choice and the mixed-doubles receiving requirement.
- FIP announcement introducing Star Point
Published 18 December 2025 · Checked 16 October 2026
Explains the first advantage, second advantage and final deciding-point sequence.
Read next
Keep a reference beside the court
Save the free rules PDF before your next match, or download Padel Pointer for Apple Watch scoring and match history on iPhone.