Starting tennis from scratch? Here's the complete shopping list — organized into a budget version (~$120) and a best-value version (~$320) that will serve you well as you improve. No fluff, no overbuying.
This gets you everything you need to start playing. No compromises on the essentials.
This setup will carry you from beginner through intermediate without needing to replace anything. Buy this if you're serious about playing regularly.
If you're trying tennis for the first time and aren't sure you'll stick with it: Budget Bundle. If you've played before or know you'll commit to at least weekly play: Best Value Bundle — the Babolat EVO Drive and ASICS shoes will serve you significantly longer and better.
As a beginner, you don't need:
Pre-packaged "beginner sets" usually bundle a mediocre racket with cheap balls and a flimsy bag. You're usually better off choosing each piece individually — the total cost is similar and the quality of each item is substantially higher. Use our bundle above as a guide.
Yes. Old, flat balls bounce inconsistently and make learning proper shot technique harder. Start with a fresh 3-pack and replace when the balls feel noticeably lighter and less bouncy on impact. For regular play, budget $15–25/month for balls.