What Ad Court Means In Tennis? | Easy Guide 2025
If you’ve ever watched or played a game of tennis, you’ve likely heard terms like “ad court” and “deuce court.” While these might sound technical, they’re actually simple concepts that play a crucial role in understanding the game.
In this article, we’ll dive into the ad court—what it is, how it got its name, and why practicing serves from this side can elevate your performance. Plus, I’ll share some personal experiences and recommendations to help you make the most of your time on the court.
What Is the Ad Court?
The ad court refers to the left-hand side of the tennis court when facing the net. It’s where players stand during specific points in a game, particularly when serving from the advantage (or “ad”) position. This term comes from scoring terminology; when a player wins a point after deuce, they gain an “advantage,” which means they serve from the ad court.
Interestingly, the ad court isn’t just a random designation—it plays a strategic role in gameplay. Serving effectively from this side requires precision, as it often involves hitting across your body if you’re right-handed (or with your dominant hand). For many players, mastering the ad court can be a game-changer.
Why Practice Serving from the Ad Court?
When I first started playing tennis, I didn’t pay much attention to the nuances of serving from different sides of the court. But over time, I realized that my weakest serves were consistently coming from the ad court. Here’s why focusing on this area is so important:
- Improved Consistency: Many beginners struggle with accuracy on their ad-court serves because of the angle and mechanics involved. Practicing here helps build muscle memory and confidence.
- Strategic Advantage: Winning points from the ad court can shift momentum in your favor, especially during tight matches.
- Balance Your Game: If your opponent knows you’re weaker on one side, they’ll exploit it. Strengthening your ad-court serve ensures you’re ready for anything.
Personally, I found that dedicating 10-15 minutes at the end of each practice session to ad-court drills made a noticeable difference. My coach recommended using targets on the service box to simulate match scenarios, which helped me refine both power and placement.
Ad Court vs. Deuce Court: What’s the Difference?
While the ad court is on the left, the deuce court occupies the right-hand side of the court. These designations matter because they determine where players stand during various stages of a rally. The deuce court is typically used for even-numbered points (like 15-15 or 30-30), while the ad court handles odd-numbered points after deuce.
One key distinction is the type of spin or shot you might use. From the ad court, slice serves are common since they naturally curve away from opponents. On the other hand, flat or kick serves tend to work better from the deuce court due to the angles involved. Understanding these differences allows you to adapt your strategy based on the situation.
Importance
Studies show that winning the ad point increases your chances of taking the game by nearly 70%.
Interesting Fact About the Ad Court
Did you know that professional players often rely heavily on their ad-court serves during critical moments? Studies show that winning the ad point increases your chances of taking the game by nearly 70%.
That’s why top athletes spend countless hours perfecting their technique on this side of the court. Watching pros like Serena Williams or Novak Djokovic handle pressure situations has taught me the importance of staying calm and focused, no matter which side of the court I’m on.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does “ad” mean in tennis?
In tennis, “ad” stands for “advantage.” When a player wins a point after deuce, they gain an advantage, meaning they need one more point to win the game.
What is the ad side of a tennis court?
The ad side, also known as the ad court, refers to the left side of the tennis court when facing the net. It’s where players serve during specific scoring situations, such as when they have the advantage.
Why is it called the ad court?
The term “ad court” comes from the scoring system in tennis. When a player gains an “advantage” after deuce, they serve from this side of the court. “Ad” is short for “advantage,” making the name directly tied to its role in gameplay.
Where should you stand when serving or returning from the ad court?
If you’re serving from the ad court, position yourself to the left of the center mark, behind the baseline. As a returner, stand on the left side of the court near where the singles sideline meets the baseline to prepare for your opponent’s serve.
Final Thoughts
The ad court may seem like just another part of the tennis court, but it holds immense potential for improving your overall game. By dedicating time to practice and understanding its significance, you’ll not only boost your skills but also gain a deeper appreciation for the sport. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, mastering the ad court will undoubtedly give you an edge on the court.
So grab your racket, head out to the courts, and start working on those ad-court serves—you might just surprise yourself with how far you can go!
