Introduction: What are the Terms Used in Tennis?
Tennis is a fast-paced sport that is full of energy and strategy, and to truly understand the game, it is important to know the terms used in tennis. This article will take a look at some of the most common terms used in the sport, their meanings and how they are used in a match. We will also take a look at some of the lesser known terms and their meanings, as well as some of the slang and jargon used by players, coaches and fans alike.
Common Terms in Tennis
The following are some of the most common terms used in tennis:
Ace
An ace is a serve that is not returned by the opposing player. It is considered an unreturnable serve and is worth one point.
Advantage
When a player is one point away from winning a game, they have advantage. This means that the player can win the game with the next point they score.
Deuce
When a game is tied at 40-40, it is referred to as deuce. In this situation, the player who scores two consecutive points wins the game.
Fault
A fault is a serve that does not go in the correct area of the court. If a player hits two consecutive faults, it is considered a double fault and the point is awarded to the opposing player.
Let
A let is when the ball hits the net and lands in the correct area of the court. This results in the point being replayed.
Love
When a game is tied at 0-0, it is referred to as love.
Match Point
When a player is one point away from winning the match, they are said to have a match point.
Rally
A rally is a sequence of shots between two players. It is considered to be the “meat” of the game and can last for several shots.
Set
A set is a group of games played between two players. A set is usually made up of six or seven games, depending on the tournament or league.
Volley
A volley is when a player hits the ball before it bounces on the court. This is usually done close to the net.
Lesser Known Terms in Tennis
The following are some of the lesser known terms used in tennis:
Break Point
A break point is when a player is one point away from breaking their opponent’s serve. It is usually considered to be a very important point in the match.
Overhead
An overhead is when a player hits the ball above their head. It is usually used to end a rally or to set up an easy shot for the opposing player.
Spin
Spin is when a player puts spin on the ball by hitting it with a closed racket face. This can be used to make the ball move in unpredictable ways and can be used to confuse the opposing player.
Swipe
A swipe is when a player swings their racket in a full circle. This is usually done to hit a powerful shot.
Drop Shot
A drop shot is when a player hits a soft shot that lands close to the net. This is usually done to catch the opposing player off guard.
Slang and Jargon Used in Tennis
The following are some of the slang and jargon used in tennis:
Clean Winner
A clean winner is when a player hits a shot that the opposing player cannot return.
Dink
A dink is when a player hits a soft shot that lands just over the net.
Dust Off
A dust off is when a player hits a powerful shot that is unreturnable.
Grinder
A grinder is a player who is known for their consistency and ability to stay in a rally for a long time.
Net Rusher
A net rusher is a player who is known for their ability to come to the net and hit powerful shots.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many terms used in tennis that are important to know if you want to understand the game. From the most common terms to the slang and jargon used by players and fans alike, it is important to know the language of the sport in order to truly appreciate the game.