Game, Set And Match

We happened to be walking past Alamo Square Park yesterday, and remembered that nestled in the trees at the crest of the hill, overlooking a perfect San Francisco skyline, is what we are declaring the most beautiful tennis court in the world. Sure, maybe Andre and Steffi have something overlooking the bay up in Marin, but the fact that anyone with some sneakers and a racket can play here for the cost of a can of fresh balls at Walgreens is what puts it over the top.

Granted, we get lyrical on days like yesterday, when the rain clouds clear and the sun shines over The City. But the ancient game of tennis has made the tales of no less than William Shakespeare and Alexandre Dumas. A prime alternative to a bloody duel, and as a way to hone the reflexes of a swordsman, tennis retains a touch of nobility. And when you smash a forehand passing shot to the baseline for a winner, we bet you'll hear the Painted Ladies cheering.

Take the 21 Hayes or the 22 Fillmore to get to the court -- save your energy for the game! And we'd like to note that etiquette demands that a playing pair can only hold the court to finish a set or for thirty minutes if there are players waiting.