Tennis: A Global Sport

Originating in France, tennis has evolved from a 12th-century handball game called 'jeu de paume'. Today, it is played globally, with four Grand Slam tournaments defining professional excellence.

A standard tennis court measures 78 feet long and 27 feet wide for singles matches. For doubles, the width extends to 36 feet. The net height is 3 feet at the center.

Tennis has a unique scoring system: points go from Love (zero) to 15, 30, then 40. Tied at 40 (deuce), a player must win by two clear points. Games build sets.

Tennis improves not just cardiovascular fitness but also strategic thinking and fine motor skills. The game's mental aspect is often compared to playing a high-speed chess match.

Proper gear includes a racket tailored to skill level, appropriate string tension for control or power, shoes designed for court surface, and high-quality tennis balls for optimal performance.

Mastering various strokes like the serve, forehand, backhand, volley, and slice is crucial. Players like Roger Federer and Serena Williams are renowned for their powerful serves and groundstrokes.

Tennis matches are as much about mental strength as physical prowess. Players must manage stress, maintain focus, and adapt strategies on the fly to outmaneuver opponents.