Tennis Rules Explained in English: A Complete Guide for Beginners and Fans

Tennis is a thrilling and globally popular sport. Understanding the official rules is key to fully appreciating the game, whether you're a player stepping onto the court or a fan watching a Grand Slam. This guide provides a clear overview of the essential tennis rules in English, helping you grasp the fundamentals of the sport.

1. The Court and Equipment A standard tennis court is a rectangular surface, 78 feet (23.77 meters) long. For singles matches, the court is 27 feet (8.23 meters) wide, while for doubles, it's 36 feet (10.97 meters) wide. The net divides the court in half. Players use a strung racket to hit a felt-covered rubber ball over the net into the opponent's designated service box or court area.

2. The Scoring System The tennis scoring system is unique. Points progress from Love (0), to 15, 30, and 40. If both players reach 40, it's called "deuce." From deuce, a player must win two consecutive points to win the game: the first point is "advantage," and the next point wins the game. Six games win a set, and winning two sets (in most tournaments) or three sets (in Grand Slam men's singles) wins the tennis match.

3. Basic Rules of Play A match begins with a serve. The server must stand behind the baseline and hit the ball into the diagonally opposite service box. Each player gets two attempts for a valid serve. After the serve, players rally, hitting the ball back and forth over the net. The ball must land within the boundaries of the court. A point is lost if a player:

• Fails to return the ball before it bounces twice.
• Hits the ball into the net or outside the court lines.
• Touches the ball with anything other than the racket.
• Allows the ball to hit their body or clothing.

4. Match Regulations and Etiquette Standard tennis match regulations include rules for changing ends (after odd-numbered games), tie-breaks (used at 6-6 in games to decide a set), and player conduct. While not always formal rules, etiquette is crucial. This includes quiet during play, retrieving balls for your opponent, and calling your own lines honestly in casual play.

Mastering these tennis basic rules enhances your enjoyment and understanding of this dynamic sport. Now you're ready to watch or play with greater confidence and appreciation for the strategy and skill involved in every match.