The sound of ball on racket echoes across sunlit courts. But for many, the price of a tennis session feels like a smash to the wallet. Not anymore. Grassroots sports funding in Britain has hit a record high, meaning you can pick up a racket without picking up a hefty bill.
The Lawn Tennis Association reports that over £200 million has been poured into community tennis projects since 2016. This cash has opened gates to free coaching, loaner rackets, and low-cost court hire. In places like Oldham, Wigan, and Bradford — towns that felt the sting of austerity more than most — new courts have sprung up on parkland and school grounds.
For Sarah, a mother of two in Salford, the change is a lifeline. “My kids used to think tennis was for posh folks,” she said. “Now they can play for free at the local rec. It’s given them something to do that doesn’t cost the earth.” She’s not alone. Participation figures show a 30% rise in weekly tennis among lower-income households since 2020.
This isn’t just about tennis. The record injection of funds — £850 million across all grassroots sports this year — comes from a mix of government levies on sports betting, National Lottery cash, and local council partnerships. The aim is to level up a playing field that has long been tilted towards the affluent.
Critics worry that funding may drop when economic pressures bite. But for now, communities are seizing the moment. Councils are offering pay-what-you-can sessions. Clubs are waiving membership fees for the first month. And online platforms like ParkPlay match people with free local sessions.
So if you’ve caught the tennis bug, check your local park. Chances are the court is free, the rackets are provided, and the coach is paid for by that record fund. It’s a small serve of equity in a game that’s finally opening its doors.
