Official score counts: Most bookmakers settle totals based on the official match score produced by the tournament or governing body. For example, a final score of 6-3, 4-6, 7-5 results in 31 games (9 + 10 + 12 = 31).

Tiebreaks: Standard tiebreaks (e.g., deciding a 7-6 set) are typically counted by the set score. So a 7-6 set contributes 13 games to the total (7 + 6). Tiebreak points are not usually added as extra games. However, markets vary on how match/super tiebreaks (a 10-point decider often used instead of a final set) are treated — some count the super tiebreak as a single game, some count it as a specific number of games, and some exclude it. Always check the bookmaker’s rules for tiebreak treatment.

Match not started / walkovers: If a match is postponed or a player withdraws before play begins, many operators void pre-match totals and return stakes. If play has started, settlement usually depends on the final score at the time of match end, but operator rules differ.

Retirements, defaults and disqualifications: If a player retires after the match has started, many bookmakers treat the official score at retirement as final and settle totals accordingly. Some operators may have exceptions, so refer to the specific terms.

Suspended or abandoned matches: For matches suspended and not completed on the scheduled day, policies vary. Some bookmakers wait for the match to be completed within a specified timeframe; others void bets if completion rules are not met. Always read the settlement section in the terms and conditions.

In-play bets: Live bets are settled using the same scoring principles, but markets and lines update rapidly. If a live match is abandoned after a live bet, settlement follows the operator’s rules for incomplete matches.

Example 1 — Simple over/under: You bet Over 21.5 games. Final score: 6-4, 6-3 — that is 10 + 9 = 19 games, so the bet loses. If the score had been 6-4, 7-6, that’s 10 + 13 = 23 games, so the bet wins.

Example 2 — Whole number push: You bet Under 20 games on a whole-number line. Final score: 6-4, 6-0 = 10 + 6 = 16 games — bet wins. If the final total equals exactly 20 games and your bookmaker treats a whole-number line as a push, your stake would be returned.

Example 3 — Tiebreak counting: Final score: 7-6(7-3), 6-4. Most operators count the tiebreak set as 13 games plus 10 games = 23 games total. If your bookmaker treats a match tiebreak differently, settlement could differ — check their rules before placing a bet.

Check each bookmaker’s betting rules before wagering: settlement conditions for retirements, tiebreaks, abandoned matches and match tiebreaks can differ.

Use half-lines (e.g., 21.5) if you want to avoid push outcomes.

Consider players’ styles, surface, recent form and head-to-head history — aggressive returners and long-match players increase game totals, while big servers can produce faster matches.

For live betting, watch the match or a reliable live scoring feed so you understand how the line reacts to breaks and medical timeouts.

Gamble responsibly: never wager more than you can afford to lose and use deposit limits or self-exclusion tools if you feel your betting is becoming a problem.

How are tiebreaks counted? Most commonly, a 7-6 set counts as 13 games (7 + 6). Treatment of match/super tiebreaks varies by operator, so check the bookmaker’s rules.

What happens if a player retires? If a player retires after play has started, many bookmakers use the official score at retirement to settle totals, but policies differ — review the terms.

Does a walkover void totals? If a match never starts due to a walkover, most operators void pre-match bets, returning stakes. Confirm this behavior with the specific bookmaker.

Can I cash out a total games bet? Cash-out availability is operator-dependent. Some bookmakers offer early cash-out on totals, others do not.

Are in-play totals settled differently? Settlement principles are typically the same, but live market availability and line changes depend on the operator’s live betting system.