Tennis is a sport that has been around for centuries. It is a game of skill and strategy, and many people enjoy playing it. The net that divides the two sides of the court is a crucial part of the game. It is lower in the middle for a specific reason. In this article, we will discuss why the tennis net is lower in the middle, and what it means for the game.
History of the Net
The net in tennis has been around since the game was first invented. It has evolved over time and the current version is designed to be lower in the middle. The net is placed in the middle of the court and is used to divide the two sides. It also serves to prevent shots from going out-of-bounds. The net is 3 feet 6 inches (1.06m) high at the posts and 3 feet (0.9m) high in the middle.
What Does the Lower Net Mean?
The lower net in the middle of the court serves a few important purposes. The first is to encourage service returns that are higher than the net. This allows players to return the serve with more power and accuracy. The lower net also encourages players to hit their groundstrokes higher over the net, making the game more interesting and challenging.
Increased Volleying
With the lower net in the middle, volleying becomes an important part of the game. Volleying is when a player hits the ball before it bounces, usually close to the net. This is a skillful way to win a point, as it requires accuracy and good reflexes. It also allows the player to get to the net quickly, setting them up for a better offensive position.
The Serve
The lower net also affects the serve. The lower net means that the ball must be served higher than the net in order to clear it. This encourages players to serve with more power and accuracy, making it more difficult to return. Additionally, the lower net also encourages players to serve with spin, as this makes it more difficult for the returner to control the ball.
Strategy
The lower net also encourages players to use a variety of strategies in order to win points. The player must choose the right shots in order to get past the net and put their opponent on the defensive. This includes using spin, accuracy and power when hitting the ball.
Tactics
The lower net also encourages players to use different tactics in order to win points. For example, a player may choose to stay at the baseline and hit powerful groundstrokes, or they may decide to come to the net and volley. Depending on the opponent, the player must choose the right tactic in order to win the point.
Deception
The lower net also encourages players to use deception when playing. This can be done by using a variety of shots, such as slices, dropshots and lobs. These shots can be used to confuse the opponent and make them guess where the ball will go. This is a great way to win points and keep the opponent on their toes.
Conclusion
The tennis net is lower in the middle for a few important reasons. It encourages players to return the serve with more power and accuracy, as well as hit their groundstrokes higher over the net. The lower net also encourages volleying, as well as the use of strategies and tactics in order to win points. Additionally, it encourages players to use deception when playing, making the game more interesting and challenging.
Ultimately, the lower net in the middle of the court helps to make tennis an exciting and challenging sport.