Traditional golf presents several barriers to entry, including expensive equipment, a steep learning curve for proper swing technique, and a slow pace of play. Tennis, while more accessible, lacks golf's strategic course navigation. A hybrid sport could bridge this gap by combining golf's course-based strategy with the familiar mechanics of tennis, making it easier to pick up while retaining depth.

How the Hybrid Sport Could Work

One way this could be done is by adapting golf courses for play with tennis rackets and balls. Players would navigate the course similarly to golf, but instead of swinging clubs, they would use tennis-style strokes to hit the ball toward modified targets—such as larger holes, nets, or marked zones. Scoring could follow golf’s stroke play format, counting the number of hits needed to reach the target. This approach would make the game more intuitive for tennis players while preserving golf’s strategic elements.

• Course Adaptation: Existing golf courses could be modified with larger targets or designated zones to accommodate tennis ball play.
• Equipment: Standard tennis rackets and low-compression balls could be used to minimize damage to greens.
• Rules: Similar to golf, but with adjustments for racket-based play, such as limiting ground strokes to protect turf.

Potential Benefits and Stakeholders

This hybrid sport could appeal to multiple groups:

• Casual sports enthusiasts looking for a less technical alternative to golf.
• Tennis players seeking new ways to apply their skills.
• Golf course operators interested in attracting non-traditional players.
• Families and groups wanting an accessible outdoor activity.

Golf courses could benefit from additional revenue, while tennis players might enjoy a fresh challenge. Equipment manufacturers could explore specialized gear, and parks could make more versatile use of green spaces.

Execution and Challenges

A pilot program could start by testing the concept with focus groups—tennis players, casual golfers, and beginners—to refine rules and gameplay. Partnering with select golf courses for initial trials would help assess feasibility. Key challenges include:

• Course protection: Low-compression balls and restricted ground strokes could minimize turf damage.
• Differentiation: Clear branding and distinct playtimes could prevent confusion with traditional golf.
• Pace of play: Time limits per hole, similar to speed golf, could keep games moving efficiently.

By leveraging existing golf infrastructure and appealing to tennis players, this hybrid sport could carve out a unique niche in recreational sports. Early testing and partnerships would be crucial to refining the concept and ensuring its viability.