March 2

World Tennis Day

A sporting event observance in early March promoting global participation in tennis, particularly encouraging new players and youth to try the sport through exhibitions, clinics, and open events.

Yearly Date

First Monday in March

Observed

Internationally

Introduction

Get ready to serve up some fun this World Tennis Day on March 4! This annual celebration, established by the International Tennis Federation, began in 2013 with an aim of promoting the healthiness and accessibility of tennis. Played by millions around the globe, tennis is a sport rich in history, dating back to the 12th century in France. It's a day to honor the sport's history, enjoy a smashingly good game, and inspire people of all ages to get on the court and play. So, dust off your tennis shoes, grab your racket, and embrace the thrill of the game while supporting a healthier lifestyle this World Tennis Day!

World Tennis Day Timeline

1873

Modern Tennis Born

Major Walter Clopton Wingfield patented his version of lawn tennis, which is considered the first version of the modern game.

1881

U.S. National Championship

The U.S. National Championship, now known as the US Open, was first held at the Newport Casino, Rhode Island.

1884

Ladies' Singles Added

The Ladies' Singles was added to the Wimbledon Championships, marking the beginning of women's participation in professional tennis.

1968

Open Era Begins

The Open Era of tennis begins, allowing professionals to compete with amateurs in Grand Slam tournaments for the first time.

1990

Comprehensive Anti-Doping Program

The International Tennis Federation introduces a comprehensive anti-doping program, pioneering drug testing in sports.

2013

World Tennis Day Inception

The International Tennis Federation introduced World Tennis Day to promote the healthiness and accessibility of tennis.

How to Celebrate World Tennis Day

1 Host a tennis tournament

Gather some friends or colleagues and arrange a friendly tournament. It's an opportunity to show off your tennis skills, meet like-minded people, and test your competitive spirit.

2 Teach a junior clinic

If you're an experienced player, offer to teach a junior clinic at your local tennis club or community center. This empowers the younger generation and inspires them to adopt the game.

3 Visit a tennis museum

Spend the day diving deep into the sport's history by visiting a tennis museum or hall of fame. You'll get to experience and appreciate the evolution of the game.

4 Watch classic tennis matches

Pull out some popcorn and watch recorded matches of legendary players like Roger Federer and Serena Williams. It's motivating and you might pick up a few tricks!

5 Participate in an online tennis workout

All you need is a wall, a racket, and a tennis ball. Join an online workout that uses tennis drills to boost your fitness level and improve your game.

Why We Love World Tennis Day

It Gets Us Active

World Tennis Day is all about promoting a healthier lifestyle through tennis. This fun, accessible sport not only boosts physical fitness but also improves mental acuity and emotional wellbeing. Getting out on the court, whether for a serious match or a playful rally, is an excellent way to get moving and have fun.

It Encourages Community Connection and Mentorship

Celebrating World Tennis Day often involves community events, from friendly tournaments to junior clinics. These not only create opportunities for players to show off their skills and compete, but they can also foster a sense of community and mentorship as experienced players help inspire and train the next generation.

It Increases Appreciation of Tennis History

Strolling through a tennis museum or watching classic matches enables us to celebrate and understand the fascinating history and evolution of the sport. Revisiting legendary moments and key players can stir up admiration for the sport and inspire improvements in one's own game.