Courts made of clay Balls bounce slower and higher on clay courts (the polar opposite of grass courts), favoring powerful baseline players with a lot of topspin. Another distinguishing feature of clay courts is the ability to slide and strike the ball while in motion. This is because there is no natural friction between the shoe and the court. Clay courts are most commonly found in continental Europe and South America, but also exist in Africa and Asia. The world's first clay court was built in Paris in 1845 and since then more than 100,000 meters of clay have been laid down across France. In 2007, another such court was inaugurated in Orlando, Florida. Clay courts are known for their offensive playing style and their impact on your knees. Because the balls tend to stay low for a longer period of time, players often spend more time at the base of the court than up against the net. This can lead to frequent breaks in play as opponents replace worn out shoes at the sidelines. Also, because the balls don't roll off the court as easily, players must use more energy during matches. This can cause problems for older or less flexible athletes. As you can see, clay courts offer a different experience than grass courts. If you're looking for a challenge, these tennis venues will bring out the best in you.