In table tennis, a player must lead by two points to win after the score reaches 10–10.
At 10–10, the game enters a sequence commonly called deuce. Play continues until one player has a two-point advantage, so scores such as 12–10, 15–13, or 20–18 can decide the game. There is no fixed maximum score in this situation under the standard rules.
The service order also changes during deuce. Instead of serving twice in succession, players alternate service after every point until the game ends. This gives each player regular opportunities to attack or defend during the deciding stage.
The rule is separate from the expedite system, which can be introduced when a game lasts too long. Under expedite, the receiver can win a point after a specified number of successful returns, but the two-point winning margin still applies.