Traditional outdoor tennis courts require large, open spaces, which are increasingly scarce in first-tier cities like Shenzhen. To address this, compact, smart indoor tennis courts are being built within underutilized spaces like the high-ceilinged commercial podiums of tall buildings and on idle rooftops. These innovative venues are quickly gaining popularity among tennis enthusiasts.

People play tennis at UPTennis’ indoor courts in the Duoli Industrial Park in Futian District. Zhao Meng

Shenzhen-based UPTennis opened its first facility dedicated to indoor tennis practice courts Jan. 1, 2024.

In just a year and a half, the company has set up over 30 such facilities in Shenzhen, with more than 10 additional ones in the pipeline. Its nationwide footprint now covers major cities such as Guangzhou, Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu, with a total of over 50 facilities. According to the company’s plan, it aims to reach 100 facilities across the country by the end of this year.

According to the company, standard tennis courts typically require up to 670 square meters. However, UPTennis’ smallest facility, at only 300 square meters, can accommodate three to five practice courts. By using intelligent ball-feeding machines and optimizing the layout, these intensive courts can accommodate nearly five times as many people compared to traditional courts.

Intelligent tablets installed in the venues are capable of analyzing players’ shots in real time and automatically generating analysis reports that provide suggestions for improvement. This technology enhances the training experience and helps players refine their skills more efficiently.

These facilities offer a convenient and enjoyable environment for all tennis enthusiasts, regardless of the weather or time of day.

“I don’t have to worry about getting tanned. During my lunch break, I can grab a cup of milk tea, play for an hour, take a shower, and then head back to work. It’s so convenient,” said a woman exercising at an indoor tennis court in the Duoli Industrial Park in Futian District.

The company plans to introduce VR technology in the future, enabling users to participate in “man-versus-machine battles” or feel like they’re playing on the legendary red clay courts of Roland Garros — the home of the French Open.

The verticalization of sports is gaining momentum in China, emerging as a solution to the challenge of limited urban land for sports facilities.

A prime example is the Jianshang Sports Complex in Longhua District, which is recognized as China’s first vertical sports venue.

This innovative complex features a high-rise split-level design, with a variety of sports facilities stacked vertically. This approach not only maximizes the use of limited urban space but also offers a wide range of sports activities for the community.