Basic Rules of Tennis

1. The Goal of the Game

Tennis is played between two players (singles) or four players (doubles). The goal? Hit the ball over the net and inside your opponent’s court before they can return it. If they miss or hit out, you win the point.

2. Scoring (Don’t Worry, It’s Easier Than It Looks)

Each game starts at “love–all” (that’s zero–zero).
Points go 15, 30, 40, and game.

• If both players reach 40, it’s called deuce.
• Win two points in a row from deuce, and you take the game.
• Win six games (by at least two), and you win the set.
• Win two out of three sets, and you win the match.

Simple version? Rally, score, smile, repeat.

3. Serving and Switching Sides

The player who serves starts behind the baseline and must hit the ball diagonally into the opposite service box. You get two tries to land it in.
Players switch sides after every odd number of games — it keeps things fair with the sun and wind.

4. Lines and Let Calls

• If the ball lands on the line, it’s in.
• If it hits the net and still goes in on a serve, it’s a let, and you replay the serve.
• No “do-overs” otherwise — play it as it lands!

5. Rally Basics

Once the ball’s in play, each side can let it bounce once before hitting it back.
Miss the ball, hit it out, or let it bounce twice — that’s your opponent’s point.

6. Tennis Etiquette (Quick Hits)

• Always start with a friendly handshake or hello.
• Call your own lines honestly.
• Return stray balls to other courts safely (not during a rally).
• Don’t worry about mistakes — they’re part of learning.

Tennis is easy to start and endlessly fun to improve at. With just a few basic rules and a good attitude, you’ll be rallying in no time. So grab your racquet, hit the court, and enjoy the game — the rest comes naturally.