Real tennis facts for kids

Jeu de paume in the 17th century.

Real tennis is a very old racket sport. It's the original game that led to the modern sport we call tennis today. People in France sometimes call it jeu de paume, which means "game of the palm." In some parts of the United States, it's known as "court tennis."

This historic sport is still played in a few places around the world. You can find active courts in the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States, and France. Different groups and organizations help keep the sport alive and organize games.

What is Real Tennis?

Real tennis is played indoors on a special court. This court has walls that are part of the game. Players can hit the ball off the walls, which makes the game exciting and different from modern tennis.

The Unique Court

The court for real tennis is quite unique. It has sloped roofs, called "penthouses," and openings in the walls. These openings are called "galleries" and "dedans." Players can score points by hitting the ball into these openings.

How the Game is Played

Players use special rackets that are shaped a bit differently from modern tennis rackets. The balls are also heavier and not as bouncy. The scoring system can be a bit tricky at first, but it's similar to modern tennis, with points like 15, 30, 40, and game.

History of Real Tennis

Real tennis has a very long history. It started many centuries ago, possibly in the 12th century. Kings and queens, like King Henry VIII of England, loved to play this game. It was very popular among the rich and noble.

From Hand to Racket

In the very beginning, players might have used their bare hands or gloves to hit the ball. Over time, they started using paddles and then rackets. This is how the game evolved into what we see today.

Why It's Still Played

Even though modern tennis is more popular, real tennis has a dedicated following. People love its history, the unique challenge of the court, and the skill it takes to play. It's a sport that connects players to the past.

Images for kids

• 

  Jesmond Dene jeu à dedans court, view toward service end

• 

  Racquets and balls

• 

  Newmarket-Suffolk jeu à dedans court, view toward hazard end

• 

  Real Tennis house at Coburg, Germany

• 

  Real Tennis Court building at Falkland Palace, housing the world's oldest tennis court and Falkland Palace Royal Tennis Club

• 

  The Spectators' Gallery facing the court at Falkland Palace

• 

  Inside the Spectators' Gallery, Falkland Palace