Exploring tennis experiences among women in mid and later life with life course theory

Interest in sport has been increasing among older adults, but sport participation among older women remains low due to diverse factors shaped throughout their lives. To encourage greater engagement, it is necessary to understand women’s sport experiences and factors that influence their engagement. This study aims to explore tennis experiences among women in mid and later life through the lens of life course theory. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with twenty female tennis players aged 41 to 78 years, which were analyzed using deductive thematic analysis. Findings suggested women’s tennis experiences were shaped by historical time and place. Also, time constraints and aging-related changes, and life transitions influenced women’s tennis engagement, but many tried to maintain their involvement in tennis. Lastly, family members and friends encouraged and discouraged tennis participation. This study expands literature on women’s sport participation and contributes to life course theory by providing insights in a sport context.