Olympic tennis: Rules, history, and top players in the Games

When you think of Olympic tennis, the version of tennis played in the Summer Olympics, featuring singles and doubles events for men and women under ITF rules. Also known as tennis at the Games, it’s the only time the world’s top players compete for gold under the Olympic flag instead of their national tours. Unlike the Grand Slams, Olympic tennis doesn’t offer ranking points from the ATP or WTA—just medals and national pride. That’s why some stars skip it, but others treat it like the ultimate prize.

Olympic tennis returned in 1988 after a 64-year break, and since then, it’s delivered some of the most emotional moments in sports. Think of Rafael Nadal’s gold in 2008, or Serena Williams winning doubles gold with her sister Venus. The surface changes every time—hard courts in Tokyo, clay in Paris, grass in London—making it unpredictable. Players who dominate Wimbledon or the US Open might struggle on a slower court in Beijing. And while the ATP and WTA don’t count it toward rankings, the pressure is real. Winning Olympic gold means something different than winning a Masters title.

There’s no prize money either, but countries often reward their champions with cash bonuses, homes, or lifetime support. Countries like Spain, Serbia, and the United States have built strong Olympic tennis programs because they know the value of the medal. Even players who’ve won multiple Grand Slams say holding that gold medal feels unique. It’s not just about skill—it’s about representing your country on the biggest stage.

What you’ll find here are stories that show how Olympic tennis connects the professional tour to the world of national pride. You’ll see how players like Novak Djokovic and Iga Świątek have chased Olympic glory, how doubles teams form last-minute partnerships, and why the event still matters even when the biggest names sit out. These aren’t just match recaps—they’re behind-the-scenes looks at what drives athletes to compete when the stakes aren’t rankings or paychecks, but something deeper.