If you’ve ever watched a match and wondered why the points jump from 30 to 40, or why zero is called “love,” you’re not alone. Those odd bits are part of tennis’s charm, and understanding them makes watching the game a lot more fun. In this guide we’ll break down the weird scoring, highlight the biggest tournaments, and give you quick tips whether you’re playing on a Guildford court or cheering from the couch.
The 15‑30‑40 system dates back to medieval French handball, where the court was divided into four sections. The numbers represented the distance a ball travelled. Over time the “45” was shortened to “40” to keep the rhythm of the game smooth. As for “love,” the most popular theory is that it comes from the French word “l'oeuf,” meaning “egg,” which looks like a zero. Knowing these quirks helps you follow the scoreboard without blinking.
Another puzzling rule is the “walkover.” A walkover means a player advances because the opponent can’t start the match – no points are played. It’s different from a retirement, where a player stops mid‑match. Walkovers can change a tournament draw quickly, giving a lucky player extra rest before the next round.
The tennis calendar is packed with events that draw global attention. Wimbledon still feels like a royal garden party, while the US Open brings a high‑energy vibe with night matches. The French Open is the only clay‑court Grand Slam, testing patience and stamina. This year the ATP Finals land in a brand‑new venue, making it a must‑see for fans who love to see the year’s top eight players battle it out.
If you’re planning to catch a match live, check the Guildford event calendar for local club tournaments that often feed into the bigger tours. Many clubs host qualifying rounds for the ATP and WTA, giving local talent a chance to shine. Even if you can’t attend, streaming platforms now carry most matches, so you can follow the action from home.
Age isn’t a barrier in tennis the way it is in many sports. Teen prodigies can break into the top ranks, while veteran players like Federer and Serena have stayed competitive into their late 30s. Each tournament has its own age rules for junior, senior, and mixed events, so it’s worth checking the entry criteria if you’re thinking of competing.
Now that you know why the score looks odd, where the biggest events happen, and what a walkover really means, you’re ready to enjoy tennis with a new perspective. Grab a racket, tune into the next broadcast, or join a local club in Guildford – the game is waiting for you.
Tennis has a weird scoring system, and the '40' in place of what should logically be '45' leaves lots of people scratching their heads. If you've ever sat courtside or watched a match on TV and wondered why tennis points jump from 30 straight to 40, you're not alone. This article digs into the history, explains why '40' stuck, and shares some cool facts and tips that even longtime fans might not know. Get ready to see tennis scoring in a whole new way.
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