The Tennis Court

Every one of the world's half a million tennis courts is, at its most basic, an identical blank canvas: a 78-foot by 36-foot rectangle, divided by a 3-foot-high net in its centre, and marked with eleven straight lines. But add in the elements of surface, space, wind, acoustics, crowds, shadows, humidity, and even air density, and every tennis court is unique—a work of art. And some are masterpieces.

The Tennis Court by Nick Pachelli is a visually stunning and thoughtfully curated exploration of 200 of the world's most beautiful, iconic, significant, and idiosyncratic tennis courts. Through breathtaking photography and engaging prose, Pachelli takes readers on a global journey, showcasing courts that range from the grandiose to the secluded, from renowned tournament venues to hidden gems known only to a few.

Pachelli delves into the histories and stories behind the heavyweights, including Wimbledon's All England Lawn Tennis Club, where a hawk is employed to keep stray birds from soiling the meticulous lawns. He explores Arthur Ashe Stadium, Grandstand, and Court 17 in Flushing Meadows, where thousands of fans gather each summer for the US Open. Roland-Garros' Court Philippe-Chatrier is highlighted in all its clay-court glory, a surface that seems to take on a different shade—burnt orange, burnt red, burgundy, umber—each time you see it.

The journey doesn't stop at famous courts. Pachelli uncovers far-flung treasures, such as Waiheke Tennis Club in New Zealand, requiring an adventurous journey involving a plane, ferry, car or bus, and a walk to reach. Indoor marvels such as the Tennis Club de Belgique evoke a hushed, reverent atmosphere akin to a theatre, with skylights that illuminate the court and leave spectators in the shadows. Hidden jewels are also revealed, including the tiny Tennis Club San Stin in Venice, a secret, single outdoor clay court tucked away behind a villa and a vine-shrouded 15-foot wall.

The urban courts are also celebrated, like the Knickerbocker Field Club nestled in the heart of Flatbush, Brooklyn. Not to be missed are iconic academies like Rafael Nadal's tennis temple in Mallorca, Spain. Then, there are the extreme and unique courts: a solitary court within the wilds of Scotland, a court in northern Spain unveiled only when the tide recedes, and the lines of the court reappear on the hardening sand; and a court in Kenya made from termite mounds.

Throughout the book, Pachelli conducts a masterful, once-in-a-lifetime tour of the world's best courts, capturing the real passion—some might call it obsession—that tennis inspires. His writing immerses readers, making it evident that it's on the court, be it grandiose or mundane, exotic or local, where tennis players truly see themselves. It's where one comes face-to-face with their temperament, drive, frustration, bliss, and longing.

This book goes beyond beautiful images; it encapsulates the essence of tennis and its unique ability to reflect the human spirit. As former world No. 1 Rennae Stubbs puts it, "This book made me fall in love with tennis all over again."

Open your eyes to the artistry and emotion captured in every line and surface of these magnificent tennis courts. Let Nick Pachelli take you on an unforgettable odyssey through The Tennis Court, where each venue tells its own story and invites you to experience the sport in an entirely new light.