Love in Tennis: Meaning, History, and Real‑World Stories

If you ever hear a commentator shout "love" during a match, you might wonder why the word for zero sounds so sweet. In tennis, "love" isn’t about romance – it’s the term for a score of zero. This tag page pulls together everything you need to know about that curious word and the real‑life love stories that happen on and off the court.

What Does "Love" Mean on the Scoreboard?

The simplest answer: when a player has no points, the scoreboard reads "love." The term dates back to French courts in the 1800s, where they used the word "l'oeuf" (the egg) to describe zero because an egg looks like a zero. English speakers heard the phrase and turned it into "love." No fancy math, just a quirky old‑time nickname that stuck.

In a standard game, points go 15, 30, 40, then game. If the server wins the first point, the score reads 15‑love. If the opponent wins the next two, it becomes 15‑30. The "love" part stays until that player finally scores a point.

Remember, "love" only refers to zero points. It doesn’t affect other terms like "deuce" (40‑40) or "advantage." Once a player gets any point, the love disappears.

Romance and Drama: Love Stories From Tennis

Beyond the scoreboard, tennis has plenty of real‑life romance. Players meet at tournaments, share practice sessions, and sometimes fall in love. Some famous couples include Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf, who both won Grand Slams and later married. Their story shows how shared passion for the sport can spark a lasting partnership.

Even today, you’ll spot mixed‑doubles pairs who start as teammates and end up dating. The chemistry needed on court often translates to chemistry off court. Fans love these pairings because they add a human touch to the competition.

For everyday players, love can also mean the joy of the game. A beginner who scores love‑love might feel discouraged, but many coaches use encouraging words to turn that zero into a learning moment. The phrase reminds players that everyone starts somewhere and that improvement comes with practice.

So whether you’re watching a pro match or playing at your local club, "love" carries two meanings: a score of zero and the affection that the sport can inspire. Understanding both sides makes the game richer and more fun.

Next time you hear "love" on TV, think about its quirky origin and the countless stories of players who fell in love with tennis – and sometimes with each other. It’s a simple word that packs history, humor, and heart into every match.