History

In the sun-drenched 1970s, on the beaches of Italy, a new game emerged, blending the passion of tennis with the relaxed vibes of beach volleyball. It was in Ravenna, on the stunning Adriatic coast, that Gianni Bellettini and his group of friends had the ingenious idea to merge these two iconic sports. Armed with beach rackets and a lightweight ball, they began hitting back and forth, drawing the curious gaze of intrigued vacationers. Initially, beach tennis was merely a pastime among friends, a joyful way to enjoy the sand and sun. However, its success quickly grew, sparking local and regional tournaments throughout Italy. The increasing demand for official rules became apparent as the game gained popularity across the country.

Professionalization

In the following decades, beach tennis crossed borders, winning the hearts of beach sports enthusiasts in Europe and South America. National associations were established, working towards its global expansion. In 2008, official recognition from the International Tennis Federation (ITF) propelled beach tennis onto the global stage, legitimizing its growing appeal. Since then, prestigious tournaments like the Beach Tennis World Championships and the Beach Tennis World Cup attract high-level competitors and enthusiasts from all walks of life.

Now how do we get started ?

Beach tennis combines tennis with the freedom of beach volleyball, with one simple rule: the ball must never touch the ground. Scoring is calculated the same way as traditional tennis. In competition, the beach tennis court is 8 meters by 16 meters, providing ample space for fast and spectacular rallies. The rackets, light as a feather (about 300g), are designed with some perforations to allow better air circulation, ensuring quick and precise movements.

Today, beach tennis is much more than a simple beach game. It is played by millions of people worldwide, on dedicated courts and even adapted tennis facilities. Dynamic, fun, and accessible, this sport continues to captivate new followers and delight outdoor sports enthusiasts. Whether you are in France or on the other side of the world, beach tennis courts await you, ready to host a sunny and thrilling game. So, what are you waiting for? It's your turn to play!