Tennis Rules: What You Need to Know About the Game

When you step onto a tennis court, a rectangular playing surface with specific dimensions and markings used for singles or doubles matches. Also known as the court, it's where the game comes alive—not just through power and spin, but through strict tennis rules that keep everything fair. These rules aren't just paperwork; they're what make tennis tennis. Without them, you'd have no way to know who won, where to stand, or when to serve. The tennis rules cover everything from how points are scored to what happens when the ball hits the net. They’re simple enough for a beginner to grasp, but detailed enough to challenge even the pros.

Understanding the scoring system, the unique point structure in tennis that uses 15, 30, 40, and game instead of numbers is the first step. No other sport counts like this. You don’t win by reaching 10 points—you win by being two points ahead after deuce. Then there’s the tennis equipment, the gear that includes rackets, balls, and shoes, all regulated by official standards to ensure fair play. A racket that’s too heavy, a ball that’s too flat, or shoes with the wrong grip? That’s not just bad luck—it’s against the rules. And don’t forget tennis etiquette, the unwritten code of conduct that includes not talking during points, replacing balls properly, and shaking hands at the end. It’s not just politeness—it’s part of the game’s soul.

These rules don’t exist in a vacuum. They connect to every match you’ve ever watched, every junior tournament in Nottinghamshire, and every senior player who still hits the court after 60. The same rules that govern Wimbledon apply to the local club on a Tuesday evening. That’s why knowing them matters—not just to win, but to enjoy the game fully. Whether you’re picking up a racket for the first time in years or helping a grandkid learn the game, understanding these basics gives you confidence. And that’s where the real fun begins.

Below, you’ll find real questions from players just like you—about net lets, double faults, line calls, and what happens when the wind blows the ball sideways. These aren’t theoretical discussions. They’re the kind of things people actually argue about on the court. And the answers? They’re all rooted in the same rules you’re learning here.