Introduction to Real Tennis
Real tennis, otherwise known as court tennis or royal tennis, is a racket sport that is over 500 years old and is still played today. It is the origin of the modern game of lawn tennis, with the rules and scoring system being based on the ancient version. The game is still played today in a handful of countries mainly in England, France, and the United States.
History of Real Tennis
Real tennis is believed to have originated in the 12th century in France, with the first known court being built in the 14th century. The game was popular among French royalty, as well as in England and Scotland, where it was often played in the royal courts. Throughout the centuries, the game has evolved and been adapted to different court sizes, equipment, and rules.
The Court and Equipment
The real tennis court is a large indoor court with a roof, walls, and a gallery for spectators. It is typically divided into two sections, the “service court” and the “hazard court.” The court is made of brick, slate, or stone, and is covered with a layer of soil or clay. The court is surrounded by walls and galleries, which can be up to 20 feet high. The court is divided into sections by a net, which is made of cord or metal and raised to a height of about five feet. The court is also divided by a line known as the “tambour line,” which is used to determine where the ball must land after a player has served the ball.
The players use wooden rackets that are made of wood and covered in leather or cloth. The balls are made of cork and covered in cloth, and are slightly larger than a modern tennis ball. The balls are also heavier and bounce less than a modern tennis ball.
Rules of Real Tennis
Real tennis is played by two players or teams of two players, who compete to be the first to reach a predetermined number of points. The players must stand on opposite sides of the court and use their rackets to hit the ball over the net into the other player’s court. The ball must land within the boundaries of the court and not touch the walls or ceiling.
Points are scored when a player wins a rally by hitting the ball into an area of the court that the other player is unable to reach. The player who wins the rally receives one point, and the first player to reach the predetermined number of points wins the game.
Game Variations and Scoring System
There are several variations of real tennis that are played today, including singles, doubles, and team play. Each variation has its own scoring system and rules, but the basic premise of the game remains the same.
In singles, points are scored when a player hits the ball into an area of the court that their opponent cannot reach. In doubles, points are scored when either player hits the ball into an area of the court that both their opponents cannot reach. In team play, points are scored when one team hits the ball into an area of the court that the other team cannot reach.
Real Tennis Today
Real tennis is still played today, although it is a niche sport and the number of players is relatively small. It is primarily played in England, France, and the United States. The game is played at a handful of clubs and courts and is also popular among students at universities.
The game is also popular among tennis enthusiasts, who are drawn to its unique rules and scoring system. It is also a popular spectator sport, with a dedicated following of fans who attend tournaments and exhibitions.
Real Tennis World Championships
The Real Tennis World Championships are held every year and are the most prestigious tournament in the sport. The event is held at the Royal Tennis Court at Hampton Court Palace in London, and draws players from all over the world. The tournament is usually held in July and is broadcast on TV and online.
Real Tennis Associations
Real tennis is governed by several national and international associations, which are responsible for setting the rules, organizing tournaments, and managing the sport. The most prominent of these is the International Real Tennis Professionals (IRTP), which is responsible for organizing the World Championships and organizing tournaments and exhibitions around the world.
Conclusion
Real tennis is an ancient sport that has evolved over the centuries and is still played today. It is a niche sport, but it has a dedicated following of players and fans. The game is governed by several national and international associations, and the most prestigious tournament is the Real Tennis World Championships, which is held annually in London.
This game has been around for centuries, and it is likely to continue to be played for centuries more. It is a unique sport that is steeped in history and tradition, and it is a great way to experience the past and have some fun at the same time.