A "tie-breaker" in tennis is a special game played when the score reaches a deadlock, typically at 6–6 in a set. This mechanism is used to determine the winner when a set is tied, ensuring that one player or team prevails. During a tie-breaker, players alternate serves, and the first to reach seven points, while leading by at least two, wins the set. Tie-breakers introduce a dynamic element to the match, emphasizing strategy and mental fortitude under pressure.