Tennis rule  is one of the most popular and widely played sports in the world, enjoyed both recreationally and professionally. Played either as singles (one player on each side) or doubles (two players per side), the game is fast-paced, strategic, and requires a combination of physical skill, mental focus, and stamina. The main objective of tennis is simple: to hit the ball over the net and into the opponent’s court in such a way that they cannot return it successfully.

Court and Equipment

A standard tennis court is rectangular, measuring 78 feet in length and 27 feet in width for singles, and 36 feet wide for doubles. The court is divided by a net standing 3 feet high in the center. The boundaries are clearly marked, and any ball landing outside the designated area is considered out of play. Players use a tennis racket to strike a felt-covered rubber ball.

Serving

A tennis match begins with a serve. The server must stand behind the baseline and hit the ball diagonally into the opponent’s service box. Players are allowed two attempts per point. If both attempts fail, the point is lost. Serving alternates between players every game. In doubles, the serving rotation includes all four players, ensuring fairness and maintaining the rhythm of the game.

Scoring System

Tennis scoring is unique and sometimes confusing for beginners. Each game progresses through points: 0 (called “love”), 15, 30, 40, and then “game.” If both players reach 40, it is called “deuce,” and a player must win two consecutive points to secure the game. A set consists of six games, and a player must win by a margin of two games. If a set reaches 6-6, a tiebreaker is usually played, where the first player to reach seven points with a two-point lead wins the set. Matches can be best of three or best of five sets depending on the tournament.

Gameplay Rules

Players can strike the ball either before it bounces (volley) or after one bounce. The ball must stay within the court boundaries; hitting the ball into the net or outside results in a point for the opponent. The rally continues until one player fails to return the ball correctly. Certain shots, such as lobs, drop shots, and smashes, add strategy and excitement to the game.

Fouls and Penalties

Faults include double faults on serves, foot faults (stepping on or over the baseline while serving), and unsportsmanlike conduct. Repeated violations can result in point penalties or even disqualification in professional matches.

Winning the Match

The winner of the match is the player or team that wins the required number of sets. In most professional tournaments, men play best-of-five sets, while women usually play best-of-three. Winning in tennis requires not just physical skill, but also strategic thinking, patience, and mental resilience.

Tennis is a sport that blends agility, precision, and endurance. By understanding its rules, beginners can enjoy the game fully and appreciate the skill and strategy displayed by top players around the world.