Where to Play Tennis in Singapore: Courts, Clubs, Lessons & Tips
Tennis courts in Singapore are in high demand as the sport continues to grow in popularity across the island. Whether you’re a beginner searching for tennis lessons in Singapore, a seasoned player looking to book a public tennis court, or someone considering joining tennis clubs in Singapore, this guide covers it all. From how to book tennis courts in Singapore to finding the right tennis coach, and even where to shop for your next tennis racket in Singapore, we’ll help you serve up the perfect game.
Introduction: Tennis Culture in Singapore
Tennis in Singapore has transformed from a niche hobby into a thriving sport embraced by people from all walks of life. Once seen as a game for the elite, it’s now a widely played activity that spans generations and backgrounds. On any given day, you’ll find students practicing their strokes after school, working professionals unwinding with a late-night rally, and expats bonding over weekend matches.
Part of the sport’s growing appeal lies in Singapore’s dense network of accessible courts, reliable infrastructure, and the country’s year-round warm climate, which makes it ideal for outdoor sports. Tennis is also a highly social sport, offering an easy way to meet people, stay active, and enjoy competitive yet friendly games.
Community centres, country clubs, and public parks have responded to demand by expanding facilities, while the rise of private coaching and tennis academies has made the sport more accessible than ever before. With increased visibility through local tournaments, school leagues, and televised Grand Slams, tennis in Singapore is no longer just a pastime—it’s part of the lifestyle.
Best Places to Play Tennis
Singapore offers a wide variety of places to play tennis, whether you’re looking for a casual game or a competitive match. Public tennis courts are available at many sports centres managed by ActiveSG, including popular locations like Kallang Tennis Centre, Yio Chu Kang, and Bedok. These courts are well-maintained, relatively affordable, and conveniently located near MRT stations or bus routes, making them highly accessible for players across the island.
For those who prefer a more exclusive experience, private clubs and condominiums offer premium courts with added perks. The Singapore Island Country Club, Chinese Swimming Club, and Tanglin Club boast some of the most scenic and well-equipped tennis courts in the country. Access to these facilities usually requires membership, which often includes coaching programs and social events for members.
Parks and recreational spaces like the Botanic Gardens and East Coast Park also feature tennis courts that are great for more spontaneous matches. While some are free to use, most courts—whether public or private—require advance booking through online platforms or mobile apps. Court availability tends to tighten on weekends and evenings, so early planning is recommended.
How to Book a Tennis Court
Booking a tennis court in Singapore is a straightforward process, especially for public facilities managed by ActiveSG. Players can make reservations through the ActiveSG website or mobile app, which provides real-time availability, pricing, and booking confirmation. Users must first create an account and top up their Active Wallet to make payments online. Courts are typically bookable up to 15 days in advance, with time slots released daily at 7am.
For public courts, peak hours—typically weekday evenings and weekends—are in high demand and get snapped up quickly, often within minutes of release. Early risers have the best chance of securing these popular time slots, while off-peak hours during weekday mornings and afternoons tend to be more readily available.
Private tennis courts at clubs, gyms, or condominiums usually require membership or residency for booking access. The process varies by facility but generally involves an internal booking portal or concierge service. Some premium venues also use third-party platforms or proprietary apps for member convenience. Booking policies and cancellation terms can differ from one provider to another, so it’s always a good idea to review the rules before confirming a session. Planning ahead is key to securing your preferred court and time, especially during school holidays and peak tennis seasons.
Where to Take Tennis Lessons
Tennis lessons in Singapore are widely available for all ages and skill levels, making it easy for newcomers and experienced players alike to improve their game. Community centres and public sports facilities often offer beginner-friendly classes through ActiveSG’s coaching programmes. These sessions are affordable and structured in group formats, catering to kids, teens, and adults. They typically focus on basic strokes, footwork, and game rules.
For those looking for more personalised instruction, private tennis academies provide a range of coaching options. Schools like Savitar, STA (Singapore Tennis Association), and Play! Tennis offer both private and group lessons conducted by certified coaches. These programmes are tailored to individual goals—whether it’s mastering advanced techniques, preparing for tournaments, or simply learning to rally confidently.
Parents often enrol their children in specialised junior development programmes, which combine skill-building with fitness and mental conditioning. These programmes are structured in progressive levels, allowing kids to grow their abilities in a supportive environment.
Adults can choose from casual group clinics or one-on-one coaching depending on their goals, schedule, and budget. Group sessions are great for social learners and cost-effective training, while private lessons offer faster, targeted progress with close instructor attention.
Joining Tennis Clubs and Communities
Becoming part of a tennis club or community in Singapore is one of the best ways to stay active, improve your skills, and meet like-minded players. There’s a strong social and competitive tennis culture on the island, with options catering to every level of play.
Tennis clubs such as the Singapore Tennis Association (STA), Chinese Swimming Club, and Keppel Club offer structured memberships that include court access, coaching programmes, and internal leagues. These clubs typically host tournaments, round-robin matches, and social mixers, making it easy for members to build friendships through regular play.
For a more casual experience, there are also numerous tennis groups on platforms like Meetup, Facebook, and WhatsApp, where players of all skill levels organise friendly games across public courts. These communities are particularly popular among expats and working professionals who want flexible schedules without committing to long-term memberships.
Competitive players can explore league opportunities such as STA tournaments, inter-club matches, and even ITF juniors or adult competitions held locally. These events not only sharpen competitive skills but also provide pathways for advancement in Singapore’s tennis scene.
Finding a Good Tennis Coach
Choosing the right tennis coach in Singapore can make a significant difference in how quickly and effectively you improve. Whether you’re a beginner learning the basics or an intermediate player refining your technique, a good coach should match your skill level, learning style, and training goals.
Start by looking at a coach’s experience and credentials. Coaches certified by recognised bodies such as the International Tennis Federation (ITF), Professional Tennis Registry (PTR), or Singapore Tennis Association (STA) often bring structured and standardised training approaches. Their background in competitive play or coaching at academies can also be a good indicator of expertise.
Teaching style is equally important. Some coaches focus heavily on drills and repetition, while others emphasise match play, strategy, or fitness. Trial sessions are a useful way to gauge compatibility before committing long-term. For young learners, a coach’s ability to motivate and communicate with children is key to keeping lessons fun and productive.
Reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations offer valuable insights. Many private academies and freelance coaches have online profiles with testimonials from past students. Platforms like Play! Tennis, Savitar, and ActiveSG list coaching services and contact details, while tennis forums and social media groups can also point you toward reputable instructors in your area.
Buying Tennis Equipment Locally
Getting the right tennis equipment is essential for both comfort and performance on the court. In Singapore, players have access to a wide range of options for buying rackets, balls, shoes, and other gear, whether in-store or online.
Queensway Shopping Centre is one of the most popular places for tennis players to shop. Known for its cluster of sports retailers, it offers a variety of tennis brands at competitive prices. Stores here often carry the latest models from Wilson, Babolat, Yonex, and Head, along with stringing services and expert advice for customising rackets.
For a more specialised experience, shops like TennisHub at Bukit Timah and Smash Javen at Kallang provide curated selections of tennis gear and cater to both recreational and competitive players. These stores typically have knowledgeable staff who can help with string tension, grip size, and choosing the right frame based on playing style.
Online platforms such as Tennis Warehouse, Decathlon, and Lazada also offer a convenient way to browse gear, compare prices, and read reviews. Many of these sites provide delivery across Singapore and occasionally run sales or clearance deals.
When selecting equipment, beginners should look for lightweight rackets with larger head sizes for easier control and power, while more advanced players may prefer heavier rackets with thinner beams for greater precision. Tennis shoes should be court-specific, offering lateral support and cushioning to prevent injuries during quick movements.
Tennis Events and Tournaments in Singapore
Tennis events and tournaments in Singapore offer players and fans a chance to experience the sport beyond regular practice sessions. The local calendar features a mix of amateur competitions, school-level tournaments, and professional showcases that cater to all levels of the tennis community.
The Singapore Tennis Association (STA) organises a variety of sanctioned tournaments throughout the year, including the STA Open, Intermediate, and Junior Series. These events provide valuable match experience and ranking points for players who are looking to progress competitively. School tournaments under the National School Games also play a key role in developing young talent, with primary, secondary, and JC-level competitions attracting strong participation islandwide.
For recreational players, clubs and community groups often host friendly matches, charity tournaments, and doubles leagues. These events focus more on camaraderie and social engagement, making them ideal for players who enjoy light-hearted but structured competition.
Singapore occasionally hosts international events such as the WTA Finals and ATP exhibitions, which draw top-tier talent and create buzz around the sport. These professional tournaments are great opportunities for tennis fans to watch world-class players live and immerse themselves in the global tennis atmosphere.
Staying connected through events—whether as a player, volunteer, or spectator—helps foster a deeper appreciation for the game and supports the continued growth of tennis in Singapore.