The Real Cost of Junior Tennis Tournaments — What Nobody Tells You Before You Start

When your child starts playing USTA tournaments, the entry fee seems reasonable — maybe $40 to $80 per event. But that number is wildly misleading. The real cost of competitive junior tennis includes a long list of expenses that nobody mentions until you're already deep into it.

Entry Fees Add Up Fast

At two tournaments per month, entry fees alone can run $80-$160 monthly. Higher-level tournaments (Level 3 and above) charge more. Add in USTA membership ($30-$60/year depending on age), and you've got a baseline before you've even left the house.

Travel Is the Big One

As your child moves up in level, the tournament options thin out and the drive times grow. What was once a 30-minute drive to a local event becomes a 2-3 hour road trip or even a flight. Hotel rooms, gas, tolls, parking, and food on the road — a single out-of-town tournament weekend can easily cost $300-$500 on top of the entry fee.

Coaching Fees

Private lessons typically run $100-$200 per hour depending on your area. Most competitive players take at least one or two private lessons per week in addition to group clinics. Some families also pay for a coach to attend tournaments. Tournament coaching fees can range from $200-$500 per day plus travel expenses.

Gear Attrition

Rackets break or get outgrown. Strings need replacing every few weeks if your child plays frequently. Shoes wear out faster than you'd think on hard courts — budget for a new pair every 2-3 months for an active player. Grips, bags, dampeners, balls for practice — it all adds up.

How to Manage the Costs

Be honest with yourself about your budget. It's okay to play fewer tournaments and focus on training. Look for local events that minimize travel costs. Buy shoes and equipment during sales. Some clubs offer scholarship programs for promising players. And remember that the most expensive path isn't always the best path. Plenty of great players developed by playing smart, not by playing expensive.