Tennis

Tennis is a racket sport played between two players in singles or two pairs in doubles. The aim is to hit a ball over a net and into the opponent’s court so that it cannot be returned before bouncing twice. A tennis court is 23.77 metres long; its width is 8.23 metres for singles and 10.97 metres for doubles. Players use rackets to control the ball’s speed, direction and spin.

The ball is covered with felt and is pressurized, which helps it rebound from the court and racket. Different surfaces, such as clay, grass and hard courts, change the way the ball bounces and moves. Players must therefore adapt their technique, movement and tactics to the conditions of the court. A standard game uses a scoring system based on points, games and sets.

A player normally needs to win four points with a margin of at least two to win a game, while a set is usually won by the first player to reach six games with a two-game advantage, subject to competition rules and possible tie-breaks. Tennis requires quick reactions, repeated acceleration, balance and precise coordination between the eyes, brain and muscles.

Players also need to anticipate where the opponent will send the ball and choose when to attack or defend. Regular practice can improve aerobic fitness, muscular endurance, agility and coordination. Because tennis involves frequent changes of direction and sudden stops, appropriate footwear, progressive training and good movement technique can help reduce the risk of injury. The sport can be played recreationally or at a high competitive level, indoors or outdoors.