Masters Tennis sounds like it might suggest that this game is for seasoned champions, like the Master’s Tennis Tournament.
In reality, it is excellent for beginning players and for tennis players who may be recovering from injuries or who find themselves with less mobility than they used to have.
Duane Fontana said, “Because it’s played on a smaller court, the player doesn’t have to cover as much ground as regular tennis. Because the ball is lower compression, [a slower ball], the player has more time to react when attempting to hit the ball. Because the ball is softer than a normal tennis ball, it’s not as hard on people with bad shoulders or elbows or wrists. A regular tennis racquet is used in Masters Tennis.”
There is less court to cover and the ball speed is easier to keep up with. It first gained popularity in Florida and has quickly gained popularity all over the country. The court Size for Master Tennis is singles, 60’ x 21’ and for doubles 60’ x 27’, compared to tennis courts which are 78’ x 27 for singles and 78’ 36’ for doubles.
Fontana said, “Approximately twenty-five Sun City residents, some new to tennis and some veteran tennis players, have tried this version of tennis. The reception has been extremely positive. Word of mouth is causing Masters Tennis to grow very quickly.”
Masters tennis uses a simple 1-2-3-4 scoring system. The first player or team to win four points wins the game and the first to win 6 games wins the match. You do not have to win by two games. All other rules of tennis apply.
Who plays Master Tennis?
Mare Roccasanto said, “Adults new to tennis, experienced players not wanting to play full-court tennis, returning players with injury or mobility challenges and players looking for something new.”
Lynn Meyer said, “I enjoy Masters tennis. It’s great for people who love tennis but don’t want to run around the regular larger court. It’s also a good choice when it’s extremely hot. It would be great for Sun City’s club to include this program for tennis lovers to have some options.”
Although all club activities have canceled for 2020, Tall Oaks Tennis Club is considering implementing Masters Tennis in their Clubs offerings for next year.
Nancy Fontana said, “You may be surprised how much fun you’ll have making new friends and getting some extra exercise.”
