Although there have been some technical improvements to the game, the rules of tennis haven't changed a great deal since that first Wimbledon Championship in 1877.

The rules might seem a little confusing at first, but as you begin to play the game, you will soon start to understand them. The rules are important because they govern the game for everybody and they establish a common International standard for all players to follow.

The rules are regulated by the International Tennis Federation. The Federation produces a full description of the rules of tennis which you can download from their site. To visit ITF online click here.

'Tennis is like a game of chess, with limitless different approaches'

Virginia Wade