The Five Love Languages is a groundbreaking book by Dr. Gary Chapman that has been a staple in relationship literature since its publication in 1992. Chapman’s framework identifies five core ways people express and receive love. The original edition and numerous adaptions have kept it on the relationship bestseller lists ever since. Today, I’m reimagining his original concept through the lens of tennis. On this Valentine’s Day, we might as well make it official. Tennis is my love language.
Words of Affirmation is providing written and verbal support for the sport. This includes describing the positive attributes of tennis and encouraging others to engage in some way. All forms of promotion, marketing, and social media fall under this expression of love. This also includes wearing clothing that bears positive thoughts about tennis. Your words of affirmation for tennis could make a difference in bringing others to the sport.
Tennis Acts of Service involves performing actions in support of the sport. This can include some forms of community outreach, such as conducting free tennis discovery days. Volunteering in your local community tennis association or the USTA is an act of service to the organization and tennis. Captaining league teams and organizing tournaments are another great way to express support for the sport. The person who is a catalyst for arranging matches and drills for a group of friends is performing an expression of their love of tennis.
Tennis Financial Support demonstrates the love of the sport by funding programs that make a difference in the tennis ecosystem. Giving equipment to a public tennis center or public park program helps others experience the joys of the sport. Donations provided to non-profit advocacy programs help promote tennis in the community. Many tennis facilities were built using financial support from private donors. This is our time to pay it forward.
Tennis Fandom is taking an avid interest in competitive tennis matches. Buying tickets to professional tournaments directly supports that event by demonstrating local interest. Watching as many televised matches as possible drives up ratings, which increases the sport’s revenue. Public interest in tennis is also helpful for garnering support for tennis in municipal parks and recreation infrastructure.
Playing Tennis is physically engaging with the sport. Whether through casual play or competing at the highest echelons, stepping onto the court is an act of love that demonstrates the art of the possible for prospective players and fans. Playing tennis is the ultimate meaningful expression of love for the sport.
The best tennis players don’t just compete—they uplift the sport in every way. Through acts of service, financial support, and passionate advocacy, they help the tennis community thrive. They play, watch, and promote the game with unwavering dedication, strengthening the tennis ecosystem.
On this Valentine’s Day, I challenge you to take action. Find a way to embody every one of the five love languages of tennis. Whatever you do, your efforts will make a difference.*
This post was adapted from “The Love Languages of Tennis,” originally published on November 5, 2023, as a part of the 12 Habits of Highly Successful Tennis Players series.
