The origin of Tennis goes back to 12th
century, but the ball used to be struck with the help of hands. It
was only in late 16th century that racquets usage came
into being. England and France were the only countries where Tennis
was popular. The first official Tennis Cup was Davis Cup, which was
held back in late 19th century. In 1896, when first
Olympics were held in Greece, the competence level was low as less
number of countries was participating in Tennis. The level and
popularity of Tennis was not much and as a result, Tennis was not
officially included in Olympics till 1988.
There are different kinds of versions in which game of
Tennis can be played, say, Singles, Doubles where two men/women on
one side competing with two men/women on other side, Mixed doubles
where Men and Women on one side competing with their counterparts on
the other. International Tennis Federation (ITF) is an organizing
body, which helps in providing ranking to the players.
This ranking is possible with the points allocated to
the players according to their performance in that respective
tournament. Example, ATP (Association of Tennis Players) 250 and 500
refers to the top 250 or 500 players at World level. Roger Federer
was able to hold number 1 ATP position for consecutive 278 days
surpassing past record of Pete Sampras. Women ATP also helps to give
ranking to women players.
There are different clubs, which help in training,
motivating and preparing players for the Grand Slam Events. Whereas
tennis clubs also provide a membership for those who
like to enjoy and have a leisure playing Tennis.
These clubs have following salient features:
- Spacious:
The number of courts might be varying between 8 to 14 and the center court is allocated to big event. Dressing rooms are available with each court allowing players to refresh themselves.
- Lighting System:
The floodlights allow players to practice until
midnight.
- Child-Care:
Parents are able to play Tennis freely as facility is
available where children can be kept under the eyes of a caretaker.
- Membership:
Most of the Clubs in US provide free membership
plus a facility to play, jive and spend a good time.
- Linkages:
Various clubs across United States are linked to USTA
(United States Tennis Association) which allows players to make a
team of 5 to 8 and they can compete with other teams around the
States.
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