clay court
Plural
clay courts
1
a tennis court surfaced with crushed brick or clay
A clay court is a type of tennis court made from crushed stone, brick, or shale, which creates a surface that is softer and slower than hard or grass courts. The surface allows the ball to bounce higher, giving players more time to react. Clay courts are often used in major tennis tournaments, and the slower surface allows for longer rallies and a different style of play. Players may need to slide to reach the ball, and the court’s surface can be affected by weather, particularly rain, which can make it more slippery.
- She slipped on the clay court during the match.
- The French Open is one of the most prestigious tennis tournaments played on clay courts.
- Clay courts require different playing strategies than hard courts.
- The ball leaves distinct marks on the clay court.
- Rafael Nadal's dominance in tennis is especially evident on clay courts.