What on Earth is Court Tennis?

Contributor: Lawrence Washington

Not too long ago, I was wandering around my tennis club in McLean, Virginia and I stumbled upon something unique. It was a room with an oversized red tennis court and a large net. It was clear at first sight that this was some sort of construction error. As I continued to observe the room, I noticed flags from other countries and many historic artifacts. I soon realized that this oversized court had significance to it.

I saw a fellow member that was coming off the court and I asked her if she could give me a brief overview of the unique tennis court. She told me that I was observing court tennis. With confusion written all over my face, she began to explain the history of court tennis until I grasped the concept firmly.

Jeu de Paume (Real Tennis or Court Tennis) is the origin of lawn tennis. It was originated in France during the middle ages and was known as the “Sport of Kings”. The game is very distinct as players still play with wooden racquets and handmade tennis balls. Unlike tennis today, court tennis players are allowed to hit tennis balls off the wall to play out the point. The court consists of galleries, markers, and a grille. Players can only serve from the service end and receive from the hazard end.

Currently, there are only 11 tennis courts of this sort in America. To learn more about this sport, please click here.