Types of Tennis Courts

Grass Court 

The grass court originated from the UK. It was the first surface tennis was played on and the most popular during the end of the 19th century and the start of 20th century. However, due to high maintenance costs compared to hard courts and clay courts, it’s popularity has slowly diminished. The playing style on grass courts is different compared to other surfaces. Grass courts are typically slippery making the ball skid resulting in a bounce that is low and fast. As a result, there are often bad bounces. The player must reach the ball faster than other surfaces resulting in shorter rallies. Because of the grass court’s characteristics, the serve and return play a major part in determining the outcome of the point, increasing the importance of the first shot that’s hit.

Clay Courts 

Clay courts are a unique surface. Compared to hard courts, clay courts tend to suit defensive players more due to the slow and high bounce of the tennis ball. Clay courts are made from compressed shale, stone and brick. They generally tend to be orange/red in colour but sometimes they can be blue as seen at the Madrid open. This unique surface originates from England. It was discovered when the clay was first used as a protective layer for the grass so that it doesn’t burn from the sun. There are many advantages and disadvantages of clay courts but this all depends on the player themselves. Due to clay courts being made from gravel, there are many bad bounces which you need to be able to adapt to. A possible advantage of playing on clay courts is the ability to slide. A player may be able to reach to the tennis ball quicker resulting in longer rallies. 

Hard Courts

One of the most common courts to be played on around the world is hard courts. Hard courts originated back in France in the 12th century. They played a game where the ball was struck with the palm of the hand. This game was called jeu de paume in French. Translated in English it was called game of the palm. Hard courts are generally faster compared to clay or grass courts. They make the ball bounce higher but maintain the same speed as a result of a uniform rigid material often covered with an acrylic layer to increase the consistency of the bounce.