Draft:G21

G21 is a fast-paced variation of tennis designed to enhance the sport's enjoyment, quicken gameplay, and maintain competitive intensity until the very last point. Similar to other tennis variations like dingles and liveball, the game is both fun and addictive, appealing to tennis enthusiasts of all levels.

History

Buster Keaton estate

G21 was invented in Beverly Hills, California, at the historic Buster Keaton estate built in 1927. This estate, renowned for its Romanesque architecture, gardens, and tennis court, has hosted numerous Hollywood legends, including Charlie Chaplin, Mary Pickford, James Mason, Richard Burton, Marlene Dietrich, and Cary Grant.

The game was co-created by Richard Gitlin and Bill Guthy, in 2014. As the founder of Guthy-Renker, a renowned direct marketing company, Guthy was no stranger to innovation and creativity. Alongside Gitlin, a fellow tennis enthusiast, Guthy sought to reimagine tennis into a format that was more engaging, faster-paced, and widly accessible. Their collaboration culminated in the creation of G21, a game designed to maximize fun and fitness while maintaining a competitive edge. Inspired by their shared love of tennis and the historic setting of the Buster Keaton estate, G21 has become a testament to their ingenuity and passion for the sport.

Gameplay and Rules

G21 is played in doubles format, with two teams (of two players) on each side of the court. The rules incorporate elements of traditional tennis with distinct modifications:

G21 Players

Initiating Play:

To start, any player can feed the ball by bouncing it and hitting a groundstroke to the opposing side. Unlike traditional tennis, no overhead serves are allowed. The receiving team has the option to decline the feed; however, once the ball is hit, it is considered live and in play.

Scoring System:

The objective of G21 is to reach 21 points, winning by a margin of 2 points.

Points are awarded based on the quality of the shot:

• 1 Point: Teams earn one point when a player on the opposing team contacts the ball but makes an error, hitting the ball either into the net or out of bounds.
• 2 Points: Teams earn two points when one of their players hits a "clean winner" - meaning the opposing team makes no contact with the ball - where the ball was hit between the service line and baseline.
• 3 Points: Teams earn three points when one of their players hits a "clean winner," where the ball was hit within the service box (near the net).

This unique scoring system is designed to reward aggressive gameplay and encourage players to hit more skillful shots that opponents cannot make contact with. Typically, teams play a best-of-five format, meaning the first team to win three out of five games to 21 points claims victory for the day.

Game Flow:

All players must begin at the baseline, and alleys are considered in play (same as in doubles tennis).

Fast-paced rallies and strategic shot-making keep the game engaging and competitive.

Variations

Rupert Friend

G21-R: This variation, introduced by actor Rupert Friend, adds an extra layer of challenge. To win, a team must not only reach the requisite 21 points, but also secure the final point with a "clean winner" shot - meaning the opposing team makes no contact with the ball. This unique rule provides opportunities for dramatic comebacks, as the leading team cannot win without executing the decisive clean winner.

Notable Players

G21 has gained popularity among top tennis players, particularly in Southern California. Esteemed players such as Kevin Kim, Carlos Cueto, Clay Thompson, Kent Seaton, Brad Gilbert, Stewart Price, and Vania King have embraced the game, contributing to its competitive spirit and evolving strategy.

Legacy

G21 offers a refreshing take on tennis, combining fitness, fun, and competition. By eliminating serving, it ensures uninterrupted gameplay and maximizes court time, making it an attractive option for players of all skill levels. Whether for casual enjoyment or serious competition, G21 embodies the spirit of innovation and community within the sport.