How to play tennis: Pro tips from Iga Świątek

There’s something mesmerizing about the grace and power of pro players – it’s enough to make anyone want to pick up a racket. Whether you’re rallying with friends or dreaming of acing a local competition, mastering the basics is the perfect place to start. “It's important to get the movements right to avoid problems in the future because changing technique is pretty hard later on,” says tennis pro Iga Świątek. From rules and scoring to tennis serves and forehands, this guide will help you hit with confidence. 

Step onto the court feeling ready to play with the right gear. Here’s what you need to get started:

- Footwear: Tennis shoes are key for stability, quick lateral movements and solid grip on any court surface. Running shoes won’t give you the ankle stability you need. 

- Clothing: Go for lightweight, breathable gear like a tennis skirt and tank top, or shorts and a T-shirt. Prioritize moisture-wicking fabrics to stay cool and dry. If you’re playing outside, make sure to wear a hat or visor. 

- Racket: Your main tool on the court – choose one that feels comfortable in your hand and suits your skill level. Sporting goods stores can help you find the perfect fit. 

- Balls: A single ball won’t cut it. Grab a can so you can keep rallying without chasing every shot.  

Tennis comes with plenty of rules but Świątek suggests: “I would focus on getting a good coach, someone who can really guide you through everything because tennis is a pretty complicated sport.” 

Once you get the hang of the tennis court layout and basic rules, it’ll feel like being fluent in a new language. Each side has two service boxes and the outer lines define the playing area – inner sidelines for singles, full width for doubles.  

Players start on opposite sides of the net. The server stands behind the baseline on the right, sending the ball diagonally into the opponent’s service box. If it lands in, the rally begins. The goal: keep the ball in play, hit within the lines, and outmaneuver your opponent.  

Sounds simple enough – just don’t let the ball (or the rules) trip you up.

The game starts with love. Really, zero points is referred to as “love” in tennis. Scoring might seem quirky, but we’ll break it down. A tennis match is made up of sets, and sets are made up of games. Within each game, players score points. 

The first point gets you 15, the second gives you 30 and the third takes you to 40. Then, you need one more point to win the game. But if both players reach 40, it’s called a deuce, and someone must win two consecutive points to win the game.

To win a set, a player needs to win at least six games with a two-game lead (like six to four or seven to five). A tiebreaker usually comes into play if players tie at six. In a tiebreak game, players race to seven points, but you must win by at least two points. 

When it comes to the match itself, most tournaments play the best of three sets, meaning the first player to win two sets takes the match. This structure is what makes tennis so exciting. It’s about strategy, endurance and keeping the pressure on. 

Read more on how tennis scoring works for a deeper dive.

Practice makes perfect in tennis. Whether you’re solo, training with a coach, or with a friend, consistent practice builds confidence and sharpens your game. Here’s how to get the basics right: 

- Serving: Stand behind the baseline, toss the ball just in front and swing smoothly. Alternate between the deuce and advantage sides, aiming for the service box. Power can wait – consistency is king.  

- Forehand: Face sidewides to the net. Use a low-to-high swing and follow through. Hit the ball cleanly in the racket’s sweet spot for maximum control.  

- Backhand: Try both one-handed and two-handed swings to see what feels most natural. Solid footwork keeps you balanced – stick with it until it clicks. 

- Volley: Stay near the net with short, controlled strokes. Keep your racket up and guide the ball with a firm wrist. 

Tennis is as much about mental discipline as physical skill, and etiquette keeps the game fair and fun. Here’s how to play with respect – on and off the court:

- Wait for a break to cross the court: Tennis is a game of focus so don’t disrupt the flow. Wait until a point is finished before entering or leaving the court. A small gesture goes a long way. 

- Call your own lines honestly: If there’s no umpire, you’re the ref. Make fair calls, even if it costs you the point – sportsmanship lies in fairness.

- Stay ready and engaged: Tennis moves fast. Be set before your opponent serves to keep the game flowing.  

- Respect court time: If others are waiting, finish on time and clear the court promptly.  

- Call your score: Say it loud before each serve to avoid disputes and keep the game running smoothly.  

- Dress for the court: Classic whites at Wimbledon to preppy polos and V-neck dresses – your choice. Just make sure your shoes are non-marking to protect the court. 

- Shake hands (or fist bump): Win or lose, a quick handshake shows respect and love for the game.  

Follow these rules, and you’ll be the kind of player everyone wants to hit with.  

Rookie mistakes can slow your progress, but sidestepping these common pitfalls will have you playing better, faster.  

- Skipping the warm-up: Jumping straight into play increases your risk of injury. A quick jog and some leg swings will get you game-ready. Bring your partner into your routine to make it fly by even faster. 

- Losing focus: “Tennis is a tough sport in terms of focus because you have many breaks. You have many things that can distract you,” says Świątek. “Focus on breathing, your tactics and keeping your mind busy with the things that are actually proactive.”

- Holding the racket wrong: A poor grip or stance messes with control. Don’t clutch too tight – try the Continental or Eastern grip and keep your knees slightly bent for balance. 

- Prioritizing power over technique: Big swings feel fun but lead to wild shots. Nail your footwork and smooth out your swing – power will come naturally with time. 

- Standing still after hitting: Tennis is all about movement. After every shot, recover to a neutral position so you’re ready for what’s next.  

Knowing the basics of tennis is just the beginning. Lace up your On tennis shoes, grab your racket and hit the court. Whether you’re serving, fine-tuning your forehand, or rallying with a friend, the best way to improve in tennis is to get out there and play.