Tennissiväylä

Tennissiväylä, often translated as "tennis lane" or "tennis channel," is a Finnish term referring to the area of the court between the singles sideline and the doubles sideline during a doubles match. This strip of the court is in play when doubles is being played but is out of bounds for singles.

In doubles tennis, the court is wider than in singles. The outer lines, known as the doubles sidelines, define the boundaries of play. The inner lines, the singles sidelines, are used for singles matches. The tennissiväylä is the rectangular area formed by these two sets of sidelines.

When a doubles team is serving or returning, the ball can land anywhere within the doubles court, including the tennissiväylä. Players often strategically aim for this area to force their opponents out of position or to hit winners. Conversely, if a player hits the ball and it lands outside the doubles sideline, it is considered out.

The tennissiväylä is a crucial aspect of doubles strategy, as it significantly expands the court and requires different tactical approaches compared to singles. Understanding the dimensions and implications of the tennissiväylä is fundamental for any player participating in doubles tennis.