Serve up some fun with tennis-themed crosswords. Ace your knowledge of Grand Slams, players, and court terms.
Tennis provides a fantastic array of terms and personalities for crossword puzzles, from grand slam tournaments and famous players to court types and scoring jargon. Clues can range from the 'deuce' and 'love' scoring system to the names of legendary athletes like 'Serena' or 'Federer.' The sport's rich history and global appeal ensure a constant supply of interesting facts and vocabulary, making it a favorite for puzzlers who enjoy sports-themed challenges and a good 'volley' of words.
Crossword clues used in tennis puzzles, with answers and links to play.
“An aggressive overhead putaway shot.”
SMASH (5)
“A towering defensive shot sent over an opponent's head.”
LOB (3)
“The 40-40 deadlock that requires a two-point advantage to break.”
DEUCE (5)
“The side strips that only matter during doubles competition.”
ALLEY (5)
“A sneaky, soft shot meant to barely clear the tape.”
DROP (4)
“Novak, the Serbian legend with four titles in the Big Apple.”
DJOKOVIC (8)
“Stealing a game while your opponent is serving.”
BREAK (5)
“The motion that initiates every single point.”
SERVE (5)
“The 78-foot-long battlefield where the action happens.”
COURT (5)
“A shot hit with backspin to keep it low and skidding.”
SLICE (5)
“The massive main stadium at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.”
ASHE (4)
“The Queens neighborhood (___ Meadows) that hosts the final Grand Slam.”
FLUSHING (8)
“The building block won after reaching at least 40 points.”
GAME (4)
“An untouchable delivery to start the point.”
ACE (3)
“Obstacle that turns a winner into a groan.”
NET (3)
“You need to win two or three of these to take the match.”
SET (3)
“Contest won by claiming the required number of sets.”
MATCH (5)
“Thrilling, extended exchange of groundstrokes.”
RALLY (5)
“Jannik ___, Italian defending his men's title in 2026. [1.2.9]”
SINNER (6)
“Five-time singles champion teaming up for doubles in London this year.”
VENUS (5)
“Strict apparel shade mandated for all competitors.”
WHITE (5)
“Perfect start to a point that leaves the returner stranded.”
ACE (3)
“Williams sister making a surprise singles comeback via wildcard in 2026.”
SERENA (6)
“It might be kicked, sliced, or hit flat to start a point.”
SERVE (5)
“Ben ___, American who won his first grass title ahead of Wimbledon 2026.”
SHELTON (7)
“Where you'll find baselines, sidelines, and tramlines.”
COURT (5)
“Do-over granted when a serve clips the net cord and lands in.”
LET (3)
“Emphatic overhead putaway that often ends a point.”
SMASH (5)
“Moonball tactic used when an opponent rushes the net.”
LOB (3)
“Wimbledon is the third Grand ___ of the calendar year.”
SLAM (4)
Showing the first 30 of 32 clues. Visit each puzzle to see all its clues.
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