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International Tennis Day

Experiencing the ancient artistry of a classic racquet sport, a game steeped in history, skill, and timeless elegance.

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Celebrate International Tennis Day by driving membership, court bookings, and equipment sales through grassroots activation at court tennis clubs, universities, and specialty retailers.

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Discover the ancient elegance of court tennis—a niche sport with growing global appeal
Host a 'Try Court Tennis' event at your club or facility to attract new players and members
Showcase the craftsmanship of wooden rackets and handmade cork-core balls as premium sporting goods
Partner with court tennis clubs and universities to run teaching clinics and tournaments during June

History

International Tennis Day was founded in 2014 and is a collaboration of the US Court Tennis Association and the US Court Tennis Preservation Foundation.

It also has the support of all of the various governing bodies and associations throughout the globe. The aim of the day is to act as a motivation for current court tennis players as well as mobilizing new ones to get involved with the sport.

The hope for International Tennis Day is that the various court tennis clubs, universities, schools and other tennis players around the world will be simultaneously celebrating the day with events, exhibitions, tennis lessons, tournaments, marathon matches, parties, teaching clinics and so much more!

As more and more people get involved with court tennis, the hope is that this day will encourage participation and catalyze more players.

International Tennis Day is situated on this date as it corresponds with the anniversary of the day that the first Tennis Court Oath was taken on June 20, 1789.

This occurred in France near the Palace of Versailles and acted as a pivotal historical moment for the French Revolution. An inspiration behind the day continues to be the most famous painting of a tennis court, “Le Serment de Jeu de Paume”, which was created by Jacques-Louis David in 1791.

How to celebrate

Try Playing Court Tennis

One ideal way to get involved with International Tennis Day would be to try playing. The slightly more difficult thing might be to find a court. As the game continues to grow, courts have become more popular and are popping up in cities in the US as well as the UK, Australia and Europe. Show some love for the day by finding a court, joining a club and giving it a shot! Learn More About Court Tennis Court tennis, real tennis, or in the past “royal tennis”, this game is a bit different from the lawn tennis that more people are familiar with. In honor of International Tennis Day, perhaps it would be interesting for novices to learn a few things about this type of tennis that are different and unique. Check out some of these to get started with:Court tennis is played indoors and the ball is handmade and has a core made from cork. It is more like a cricket ball than a bouncy, rubber lawn tennis ball.Rackets for court tennis are wooden, have a longer handle and are asymmetrical.Instead of just using the court and the net, the walls play an important part in the game when it comes to court tennis. The ceilings are high and the walls and ends are also typically asymmetrical, but there is no exact standard dimensions for the court in real tennis.

FAQ

Why is tennis considered one of the oldest sports still played today?

Tennis traces its roots back to 12th-century France, where it began as “Jeu de Paume,” or “Game of the Palm.” Players used their hands instead of rackets to hit the ball. Over centuries, it evolved with new equipment, rules, and playing surfaces, paving the way for modern lawn tennis.

What unusual materials were used for tennis balls in the past?

Early tennis balls were made of leather and stuffed with hair, wool, or feathers. These materials made them heavy and inconsistent. With time, balls improved, eventually adopting rubber for better bounce and playability.

How do some cultures blend tennis with other traditions?

In India, tennis courts often host Diwali or Holi celebrations, with brightly colored decorations and festive activities. Similarly, tennis clubs in Japan may combine the sport with cherry blossom viewing in spring, making it a cultural experience.

What’s the connection between tennis and fashion history?

Tennis popularized “tennis whites,” which became a fashion statement in the late 19th century. The sport also helped introduce short skirts for women players in the 1920s, breaking social norms of the era. Iconic brands like Lacoste originated from tennis culture.

Are there any superstitions or rituals tied to tennis?

Some players have quirky rituals, like bouncing the ball a specific number of times before serving. Rafael Nadal famously follows strict routines, including adjusting his water bottles just so. These habits are believed to improve focus and confidence.

What role does International Tennis Day play in developing countries?

International Tennis Day promotes grassroots programs in countries like Uganda and Nepal. Organizations donate rackets and balls to encourage youth participation, providing opportunities where resources are scarce.

What’s the strangest location where a tennis match has been played?

In 2010, a match was held on the helipad of the Burj Al Arab in Dubai, 692 feet above ground. The unconventional setting highlighted tennis’s global appeal and adaptability.

How does tennis impact mental health?

Tennis improves concentration, decision-making, and stress management. Its one-on-one nature encourages mental resilience. Studies suggest playing regularly can reduce anxiety and boost self-esteem.

Has tennis ever inspired literature or art?

Yes, tennis has appeared in literature, like David Foster Wallace’s Infinite Jest, which explores the sport’s psychological and physical demands. It’s also featured in paintings and sculptures, symbolizing discipline and elegance.

Are there fun alternatives to traditional tennis?

Creative variations like “cardio tennis” combine music and fitness drills with gameplay. Beach tennis, played on sand, offers a more casual, laid-back experience. These twists make the sport more engaging for different audiences.