Master the Game: A Comprehensive Guide to Tennis Rules in English

Tennis is a globally beloved sport, and understanding its rules in English is key for international play, watching tournaments, or simply deepening your appreciation for the game. This guide provides a clear and detailed overview of the essential regulations.

1. The Court and Equipment A standard tennis court is 78 feet (23.77 meters) long and 27 feet (8.23 meters) wide for singles matches. The net divides the court, standing 3 feet (0.914 meters) high at the center. 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 Tennis has a unique scoring sequence: Love (0), 15, 30, 40, Game. If both players reach 40-40, it's called "Deuce." From deuce, a player must win two consecutive points to secure the game. The first point after deuce is "Advantage." Winning six games typically wins a "set," and winning two (women's) or three (men's) sets wins the match.

3. Basic Rules of Play

• Serve: Each point begins with a serve. The server must stand behind the baseline and hit the ball into the diagonally opposite service box. Two failed attempts result in a "double fault," awarding the point to the opponent.
• Rally: After a successful serve, players hit the ball back and forth. The ball must land within the boundaries of the court. Hitting the ball into the net or outside the lines results in losing the point.
• Faults: A "let" is called if the served ball touches the net but lands in the correct service box; the serve is retaken. Other faults include touching the net, hitting the ball before it crosses the net, or carrying/catching the ball on the racket.

4. Key Regulations

• Players change ends of the court after every odd-numbered game.
• A ball is considered "in" if it touches any part of the line.
• In doubles, the court is wider, and partners must adhere to specific serving and receiving order rules.

Mastering these tennis rules in English enhances your ability to participate, spectate, and enjoy this dynamic sport. Whether you're a novice or refining your knowledge, a solid grasp of the regulations is the first step toward true proficiency on the court. Remember, consistent practice and fair play are the cornerstones of the game.