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Tennis Terminology Origins Debated

Updated 2026-06-04 09:20 UTC 1 source Neutral

Historians and language experts debate the origins of 'love' in tennis, a term that has puzzled many for years.

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NPR

How having zero points in tennis — or 'love' — came to sound so sweet

There are theories that "love" in the tennis context has French, English or Dutch origins. But like many words, historians and language experts say it's hard to pin down the "right" answer.

2026-06-04 09:00 UTC