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Coaching Corner

Everything you need to know about tennis: rules, fouls and surfaces

Palm, the ancestor of tennis, is a sport in which every point, every exchange and every decision is based on a well-defined framework. Each match follows a specific structure, with players competing against each other by accumulating points, which in turn are used to win sets. Depending on the format of the match the number of sets needed to win can vary, which has an influence on the length of the match and how effort is managed. Mastering this not only allows you to progress technically, but also to improve your strategy on the court.

How a tennis match unfolds

The meeting is divided into several key phases:

  • 1. The service

    Each point begins with a serve, taken by one of the competitors from the back line of the tennis court. The server must hit into the opposite diagonal and comply with the specific rules, failing which the serve will be considered a fault.

  • 2. Exchanges

    After serving, the two opponents exchange the ball until one of them makes an error, such as :

    • Sending the ball out of bounds
    • Not returning the ball before the second bounce
    • Sending the ball directly into the net during the rally.

    The side change occurs at the end of each odd game, which can influence the dynamics of the duel and the strategic adaptation of the competitors.

  • 3. The score

    Tennis has a single scoring system, progressing as follows: 15, 30, 40, then game. In the event of a tie at 40-40, two consecutive points are required to win the game.

    As games are won, competitors accumulate sets. A set is won when one participant reaches six games. If both opponents reach 6-6, a tie-break is held to decide the winner of the set.

  • Changing sides

    This change is not insignificant: it aims to rebalance the playing conditions and maintain fairness between competitors.

    There are several reasons for this change:

    • The wind: it can favour a player on one side of the court.
    • The sun: the wrong direction can affect visibility.
    • The condition of the court: certain areas may wear differently, affecting the way the ball is supported or rebounded.

    Changing sides means that each player must constantly adapt and adjust his or her strategy according to the new conditions encountered.

Mistakes not to be made

Tactique tennis

Here are a few mistakes to avoid:

Service fault: If the ball does not touch the authorised area or if the player crosses the baseline before hitting the ball. After two consecutive errors, the point is automatically given to the opponent. This is called a double fault.

Fault during the rally: A player can lose a point if he hits the ball out of bounds, i.e. if it stays in the net, or if he lets the ball bounce twice before returning it.

Time management: Tennis imposes a time limit between each point. A player who takes too long between serves or games may receive a warning or even a penalty.

The play area

In tennis, knowledge of surfaces is essential. Each type of court not only imposes different playing strategies, but also determines the specific techniques to be respected, such as bounce conditions, ball behaviour and player movement. Knowing what type of surface you’re playing on is therefore one of the fundamentals you need to master to adapt effectively in a match.

coach et joueuse se tapent la main

The court surface has a direct influence on the speed of play, the length of exchanges and the strategy to adopt.

The main surfaces encountered are :

  • Clay: this is the iconic surface, offering high rebounds and longer rallies. Used in particular at Roland Garros.
  • Grass: a fast surface with low bounces, favouring attacking play. Wimbledon is the most famous example of a tournament played on grass.
  • Hard: a versatile, even surface, suitable for all styles of play. TheAustralian Open andUS Open are played on this surface.
  • Synthetic: artificial surfaces often used indoors or in private clubs.

The Grand Slam tournaments therefore use different surfaces, influencing the strategy and style of play of the players at the highest level.

Whatever the surface used (clay, grass, hard or synthetic), the dimensions of a tennis court always remain the same:

  • Length: 23.77 metres
  • Width for singles: 8.23 metres
  • Double width: 10.97 metres

Each type of surface affects the speed of play, bounce andmaintenance of the court, but not its dimensions.

To find out more: Discover the different types of tennis surface

Conclusion

The rules of tennis are designed to ensure a balanced and structured game. Whether it’s learning how to count points, avoid a fault or master the serve, every player needs to assimilate these fundamentals to progress and improve his or her level of play.

FAQ!

  • The server has two attempts to ensure a balance between attack and regularity. Without this rule, the server should always favour a safe serve, thus reducing the dynamics of the game.

    The first serve is often powerful and risky in order to gain an advantage.

    The second serve is more secure to avoid a double fault.

    This rule makes for more varied and tactical exchanges, limiting the number of points won solely on unforced errors.

    1. Vary the effects: Alternate lifts, slice and flat shots to disrupt your rhythm.
    2. Change the rhythm: Mix fast shots with slower balls to break the momentum.
    3. Playing with angles: Widen the court with cross-court shots to force your opponent to move.
    4. Get to the net: Take the initiative with aggressive volleys to shorten exchanges.
    5. Exploiting weaknesses: If a player has a weaker backhand, emphasise that side.
    6. Concentration and adaptation are essential to impose your game and dominate a match.

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