Tennis is a fun sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and ability levels. You're never too old to learn how to play tennis or to take advantage of the benefits that it offers, including getting a good workout, making new friends and being outside in the fresh air, weather permitting. The policies and rules of tennis are based on tradition and many of the rules that are enforced today have been around since the early 1900s.
Scoring
Tennis scoring can be puzzling, but once you play a couple of matches it will become second nature. The points in each game start at 0, or love, and go 15, 30, 40, game. A player must win six games by two to win the set; this means that they can win with a score of 6-4, but not 6-5. If the score becomes 6-5 you continue to play until one player has won by two games. Most matches are two out of three sets, though your particular club or circuit may use different formats. For example, to shorten matches some clubs do two sets with a tie-break, rather than a third set.
Serving
One player serves for an entire game. Players have two tries to get the ball over the net and in the appropriate space on the opponent's side for each point. If the ball hits the net it is called a "let" and the serve can be taken over. If the player missed on both tries, per point, it is called a double fault and the opponent gets the point. The server is also responsible for announcing the score at the beginning of each point.
Line Calls
Each player is responsible for the line calls on their side of the court. This is where honestly and respect play a big part in tennis; you are the one determining if your opponents balls are in or out. At times it can be difficult to tell if a ball hit the line or was just out; if you are not sure, then you are expected to give the benefit to your opponent. A ball that hits the line is considered in, but one that is over the line, no matter how close is considered out.
Etiquette
Tennis a sport based on etiquette and respect. Therefore swearing, screaming, throwing rackets or temper tantrums, berating your opponent are generally not allowed during a tennis match. While matches can be highly competitive, players are expected to learn to control their emotions rather than express them through outbursts. The more control you have over your emotions, the more focused you will be on your game, which provides you with a better opportunity to win.
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