Two Games, One Sport

Tennis has sometimes been thought of as the polite, gentleman’s game, requiring little exertion and being played mostly for fun. However, as is clear from Serena and Venus Williams’s loud “grunts” on the court, tennis is a physically challenging game that takes effort and cerebral ability. Not only does tennis require stamina and strength, but when the strategic difference between doubles and singles playing is added, the sport takes on a whole new meaning.In a singles match, as the name implies, there are two players on the court, both on opposing teams. Serving rotates between the opponents until one of the players has won.In doubles tennis, there are four players on the court, two to a team one covering the right court (nickname: deuce court, the receiving side for a deuce point), and the other covering left court (nickname: advantage court, the receiving side for an advantage point). Another key difference between the two is that in singles part of the tennis court, the doubles alleys, is not used, while in doubles the alleys are considered fair game.Both styles of the game are difficult but neither emerges as the easier way. Singles requires a great deal more movement around the court, while in doubles you do not have to cover as much ground because you have a partner minding your blind side. In singles, you are able to strategize on your own and return shots at your own accord, while in doubles you have to worry about your teammate missing shots, or losing points.Doubles players say that doubles playing is harder, while singles players say that singles playing is more difficult. Samantha Ahn (’15), a doubles player on the Samohi girls’ tennis team commented on this controversy in a neutral way.“Both are equally hard. They require different skills so, they are different in their own way.” Ahn said.Ahn, however believes that doubles is incredibly challenging because without sufficient communication between you and your partner, the pair will not work well together.“One of the most challenging things is being able to communicate to one another,” Ahn said. “Doubles [playing] is always being on your feet, and aiming balls hard at the net. Overall working the net together and playing smart. Communication is key.”On the other hand, Lauren Fleck (’16) a doubles and singles player on girls’ tennis believes that singles playing serves a powerful drive.“Singles is difficult because its more pressure placed on you. It is only you, unlike in doubles when you have someone to work with as a team.”Doubles, and singles playing will stay shrouded in controversy by the players that support their respective styles. As spectators, nonetheless we can look on in enjoyment as we see opponents grunting and striving for those sweet match victories.