Tennis 101: Understanding the Game's Essentials

Tennis is a sport that combines physical skill, strategy, and mental fortitude. With a simple entry-level proposition—all you really need is a ball and a racquet to get started—tennis is accessible to people of all ages and skill levels, but understanding the essentials of the game is crucial. This comprehensive tennis guide will cover the fundamentals of how to play tennis and other essentials to help beginners excel in their tennis journey.

The Basics of Tennis

Tennis has a rich history, dating back to the late 12th century in France, where it was played by monks using their hands. The game evolved over the centuries, and so too did the basic rules of tennis, as players transitioned to racquets in the 16th century and the sport began gaining popularity in England. Today, tennis is played on various surfaces, including grass, clay, and hard courts. It is enjoyed both recreationally and competitively around the globe, with the four Grand Slam events enjoyed annually by millions of fans around the world.

Equipment Needed

To get started with tennis, these pieces of equipment are considered tennis essentials:

• Racquet: A good-quality tennis racquet is crucial. Racquets come in various sizes and weights, so choose one that feels comfortable and suits your playing style.
• Tennis balls: Standard yellow tennis balls are used for adult play, while junior players may use softer balls designed for their skill level.
• Attire: Wear comfortable athletic clothing and tennis shoes designed for court play. Proper footwear is critical to prevent injuries and provide adequate support.

Having the right equipment ensures a better playing experience and helps you focus on mastering the game. 

Court Layout and Dimensions

A single tennis court dimension is 23.77m long and 8.23m wide, with the service line being 6.4m from the net. The total playing area is 195.65m². The standard tennis net dimensions are at a height of 1.07 metres at the posts and 0.914 metres in the centre. Key markings include:

• Baselines: The lines at the back of the court where players serve from.
• Service Boxes: Two boxes on either side of the net where the server must hit the ball during a serve (these boxes are split by a centre line).
• Sidelines: The outer lines that define the width of the court for singles and doubles play (doubles courts are 1.37m wider on either side of the court, or 2.74m total).

Basic Rules of Tennis

A set of fundamental, standardised rules governs tennis. Here are some basic rules of how to play tennis for beginners:

• Serving: The game starts with a serve, where the server must hit the ball into the opponent's service box. A fault occurs if the serve lands outside this area.
• Scoring: Points are scored when a shot fails to land within the court boundaries, or a player is unable to hit the ball before it has bounced a second time.
• Gameplay Structure: A match consists of games, sets, and matches. Players take turns serving, and the first player to win four points wins a game.

Fundamental Strokes in Tennis

Mastering the fundamental strokes is essential for any player. Here are some of the mechanics of tennis you should focus on:

The Serve

The serve is the most critical shot in tennis, as it initiates every point and often dictates the way a point will unfold. To execute a proper serve:

• Stance: Stand behind the baseline with your feet shoulder-width apart.
• Ball Toss: Toss the ball into the air, slightly in front of you.
• Swing: Rotate your body and swing the racquet upward to hit the ball at its highest point.

A good serve sets the tone for the point and can give you a significant advantage. A player with a strong serve is also more likely to deliver an ‘ace’, whereby a legal serve is not even touched by the receiver. 

Forehand Groundstroke

The forehand stroke is a fundamental shot typically used in rallies or as winning points. To execute a forehand:

• Preparation: Position yourself to face the incoming ball.
• Swing: Step into the shot, rotating your hips and shoulders, and swing the racquet forward to make contact with the ball. Your front foot in a forehand groundstroke should be the opposite of the hand you are using to hold the racquet (e.g., a right-hander should lead into the shot with their left foot, and vice versa).

Backhand Groundstroke

The backhand stroke can be executed with one or two hands. Here’s how to perform each:

One-Handed Backhand

Preparation: Hold your racquet with your dominant hand. Start with your feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent, facing the approaching ball with your front foot the same as the hand in which you hold your racquet (eg: a right-hander should lead into the shot with their right foot, and vice versa).

Swing: Begin the swing by stepping forward with your front foot. Rotate your hips and shoulders back, bringing the racquet across in front of your body so that the head is pointing directly behind the baseline and your front elbow is pointing towards the net. As the ball approaches, swing forward, making contact with the ball at waist height. Follow through by extending your arm and finishing high, allowing your racquet to cross your body.

Two-Handed Backhand

Preparation: Hold the racquet with your dominant hand at the top of the hand and your other hand closer to the frame. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent. Position the racquet back and to the side, ensuring both hands are on the handle for stability.

Swing: Step forward with your front foot as the ball approaches. Rotate your hips and shoulders, bringing the racquet back. As you swing forward, use both hands to drive through the ball, making contact at waist height. Follow through by extending your arms and finishing with the racquet above your shoulder.

Volleys and Smashes

Volleys and overhead smashes are crucial for net play. Here’s how to execute them:

• Volley: Approach the ball well before it is going to reach its landing point. Using either a forehand or backhand technique, swing through the ball but be careful not to hit it too hard; a volley will ‘ping’ off the racquet more readily than a groundstroke. 

• Overhead Smash: This shot is typically played when an opponent hits a defensive lob, or looks to clear a player at the net. With a one-handed grip, bring the racquet behind you and then raise it high well behind your body, then swing through and hit the ball while it is virtually at the top of your reach. 

Both the volley and the overhead smash are vital shots for finishing points and putting pressure on your opponent.

Understanding Tennis Scoring

Understanding tennis scoring can be tricky for beginners, but it’s essential to grasp the system. Points are scored as follows:

• Points: Each serve and the passage of play that follows is called a ‘point’. A player must win a minimum of four points to win a ‘game’.  
• Games: A player must win six games to win a set, with at least a two-game lead. If the scores reach 5-5, a player can win the set 7-5. If the scores reach 6-6, the set goes to a tiebreak (see explanation below).
• Sets: Matches are typically best of three or five sets.

Scoring System

The point system in tennis is unique:

• zero points = Love
• one point = 15
• two points = 30
• three points = 40
• four points = Game
• Deuce: When both players reach 40, a player must win two consecutive points to win the game.

Game, Set, Match

A game is won by the first player to reach four points (unless the game goes to ‘deuce’, as detailed above). A set is won by the first player to win six games, though a player can also win a set 7-5 or via a tiebreak (see explanation below). Matches can be structured typically as best of three sets or best of five sets.

Tiebreaks and Special Scoring Rules

Tiebreaks occur when players reach six games each in a set. The tiebreak is played to seven points, and a player must win by at least two points. If the tiebreak reaches 6-6, it continues until a player leads by two.

Key Strategies for Beginners

Positioning and Footwork

Proper positioning and footwork are crucial for effective play. Stay on your toes and always be ready to move and adjust your stance based on your opponent's shots.

Basic Match Strategies

Focus on playing to your strengths, whether it’s a powerful serve or consistent groundstrokes. Target your opponent's weaknesses, such as their less dominant side.

Mental Approach

Tennis is as much a mental game as it is physical. Maintain focus and concentration on each point, stay positive, and practice good sportsmanship.

Choosing the Perfect Tennis Courts for Your Game

Having access to high-quality tennis courts can significantly enhance your playing experience. Well-maintained courts provide better traction and bounce, allowing you to practice effectively. For more information on designing the perfect court for your needs, visit Dream Courts.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Beginners often make several common mistakes that can hinder their progress:

• Improper Grip: Using the wrong grip can affect shot accuracy. Watch the pros and ensure you are practicing the correct grips for each stroke.
• Poor Stance: Standing too close or too far from the ball can lead to poor execution of strokes. Focus on positioning yourself correctly.
• Overhitting: Trying to hit the ball too hard can result in errors. Instead, focus on control and placement.

Ready to Take Your Tennis Game to the Next Level?

Now that this tennis guide has shown you how to play tennis, why not do it regularly? Visit Dream Courts for expert advice and top-quality court sporting accessories that will enhance your training. Check out our hoops accessories and contact us for personalised guidance. 

‍