Tennis terminology explored ahead of 2026 U.S. Open
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 19, 2026, 8:00 AM
Last updated Aug 19, 2026
As the 2026 U.S. Open approaches, the unique language of tennis is drawing attention. Terms like 'love', which indicates zero points, and strange scoring sequences such as 15, 30, and 40, originate from historical practices in medieval France. Language expert Martha Barnette traces these terms back and discusses theories behind their usage. The tournament begins with Fan Week on August 23, followed by main-draw singles play on August 30.
- •U.S. Open main-draw singles play starts August 30.
- •Fan Week kicks off August 23.
- •'Love' means zero points in tennis.
- •Scoring terms date back to medieval France.
- •Barnette explores origins of tennis terminology.
- 8:00 AMYahoo Sports — What’s with All the “Love” in Tennis? Here’s the History Behind the Sport’s Most Confusing Terms
"We’re serving up the surprising stories behind the words you hear on the court
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