10 Tennis Hairstyle Ideas

Tennis hairstyles need to do two things well: keep your hair secure while you move and still feel comfortable for long practice sessions or matches. The best options hold hair away from the face, stay in place through serves and sprints, and do not feel too heavy or distracting once you start playing.

A good tennis hairstyle can work for many hair types and lengths, but the right choice depends on your texture, density, and how much hold you need. Some players prefer sleek styles that stay tight and neat, while others like softer braids, buns, or ponytails that feel a little lighter and easier to redo between sets.

These styles are especially useful if you deal with flyaways, sweat, or hair slipping loose around the hairline. Some are very quick and low-maintenance, while others take a few extra minutes but offer stronger hold for intense training or match play.

If you want a hairstyle that looks cute, feels practical, and holds up on the court, these tennis hairstyle ideas are a great place to start.

Quick List

• High Sporty Ponytail Tennis Hairstyle
• Braided Ponytail Tennis Hairstyle
• Low Braided Bun Tennis Hairstyle
• Double Dutch Braids Tennis Hairstyle
• Bubble Ponytail Tennis Hairstyle
• High Bun with Headband Tennis Hairstyle
• Half-Up Braided Tennis Hairstyle
• Sleek Low Ponytail Tennis Hairstyle
• Single French Braid Tennis Hairstyle
• Twisted Pigtail Braids Tennis Hairstyle

High Sporty Ponytail Tennis Hairstyle

This high sporty ponytail is one of the most classic tennis hairstyles because it keeps the hair lifted off the neck and away from the face. It feels light, energetic, and easy to wear, which makes it a strong choice for both practice and match days.

What makes this version stand out is its simplicity. It is quick to do, works on many hair lengths, and pairs well with visors and caps. It is especially useful if you want a style that looks clean and athletic without taking too much time before heading to the court.
Pro tip: Ask your stylist for light long layers around the front if you want your ponytail to feel smoother and easier to gather without bulky loose pieces.

How To Style

• Start with dry or slightly damp hair brushed free of tangles.
• Apply a light leave-in or smoothing cream, then use heat protectant only if you plan to smooth the front first.
• Gather the hair high at the crown or just below it.
• Secure it tightly with a snag-free elastic.
• Brush the top and sides smooth, then tighten the ponytail again if needed.
• Wrap a small piece of hair around the elastic if you want a cleaner finish.
• Finish with a light hold spray and add a sweat-friendly headband if needed.

Best For

• Face shapes: Oval, round, heart
• Hair types: Straight to curly, fine to thick

Tools & Products

• Paddle brush
• Snag-free hair elastic
• Smoothing cream or leave-in
• Heat protectant
• Edge brush or toothbrush
• Light hold hairspray
• Sweatband or visor

Styling Time & Difficulty

Approx. styling time: 5–8 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Where This Hairstyle Works Best

This style works best for practice sessions, casual matches, school sports, gym-to-court days, and anyone who wants a fast reliable hairstyle.

Maintenance Tips

• Replace stretched elastics often so the ponytail stays secure.
• Refresh the hairline with a little water or leave-in if flyaways appear.
• Avoid tying the ponytail in the exact same spot every day to reduce tension.
• Use a soft scrunchie after play if you want to give the roots a break.

Braided Ponytail Tennis Hairstyle

The braided ponytail takes a regular ponytail and makes it much more secure for movement. Once the ponytail is tied, the length is braided down so it swings less and stays more controlled during running, serving, and quick changes of direction.

This version is great if your ponytail usually tangles, slaps your back too much, or starts to loosen during long sessions. It still looks sporty and feminine, but it feels more practical for active play.
Pro tip: Ask for subtle long layers instead of too many short layers if you want your braid to look smoother and stay together better.

How To Style

• Start with brushed, dry hair or lightly damp hair.
• Apply a small amount of smoothing cream or leave-in through the lengths.
• Gather the hair into a mid or high ponytail and secure with an elastic.
• Braid the ponytail all the way down in a classic three-strand braid.
• Secure the braid end with a second small elastic.
• Gently tighten the braid if it feels loose, but keep it firm for sport.
• Finish with light hairspray or anti-frizz mist.

Best For

• Face shapes: Oval, heart, square
• Hair types: Straight to wavy, medium to thick

Tools & Products

• Paddle brush
• Hair elastics
• Smoothing cream
• Leave-in conditioner
• Edge brush
• Anti-frizz mist
• Light hold hairspray

Styling Time & Difficulty

Approx. styling time: 7–10 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Where This Hairstyle Works Best

It works especially well for long matches, training days, windy outdoor courts, and players who want more control through the lengths.

Maintenance Tips

• Keep a spare small elastic in your tennis bag in case the braid end loosens.
• Smooth the ponytail before braiding so the braid looks cleaner and lasts longer.
• Do not braid soaking wet hair too tightly for long periods.
• Loosen gently after play to avoid breakage around the elastic points.

Low Braided Bun Tennis Hairstyle

This low braided bun keeps the hair fully contained, which makes it one of the most secure choices for tennis. The hair is gathered low, braided, then wrapped into a bun that sits neatly at the back of the head.

What makes this style stand out is how controlled it feels. There is less swinging and less distraction, which can be especially helpful for long hair during serious matches or intense practice. It also fits nicely under a cap in many cases if the bun is kept compact.
Pro tip: Ask your stylist for soft face-framing pieces only if you want them, because too many short front layers can fall loose during play.

How To Style

• Start with dry or slightly damp hair and brush it smooth.
• Apply a little styling cream or gel at the roots for hold.
• Gather the hair into a low ponytail and secure with an elastic.
• Braid the ponytail to the ends and secure with another elastic.
• Wrap the braid into a compact bun and pin it in place.
• Tuck any loose ends neatly under the bun.
• Finish with a firm hold spray for extra security.

Best For

• Face shapes: Oval, heart, long
• Hair types: Straight to curly, medium to thick

Tools & Products

• Paddle brush
• Hair elastics
• Bobby pins
• Styling cream or light gel
• Edge brush
• Firm hold hairspray
• Anti-frizz serum

Styling Time & Difficulty

Approx. styling time: 10–12 minutes
Difficulty: Medium

Where This Hairstyle Works Best

This hairstyle is ideal for competitive matches, hot weather, long hair, and players who want minimal movement once the style is in place.

Maintenance Tips

• Use strong but comfortable pins so the bun stays secure without pulling.
• Check the bun before playing if you wear a cap or visor over it.
• Avoid making the bun too low if it presses uncomfortably against your neck.
• Take the pins out gently after play to avoid snagging.

Double Dutch Braids Tennis Hairstyle

Double Dutch braids are one of the best tennis hairstyles for keeping every section of hair close and secure. The braids run along the scalp, which means there is very little shifting once you start moving.

This style is perfect for active match days, outdoor training, and humid conditions when loose hair tends to puff up or stick to the face. It also works really well under a visor and feels balanced because the weight is split evenly on both sides.
Pro tip: Ask your stylist to keep the ends healthy and trimmed, because clean ends make braided styles look neater and last better.

How To Style

• Start with brushed hair that is dry or slightly damp.
• Part the hair cleanly down the center from front to nape.
• Apply a little styling cream or braid gel to each side.
• Create a Dutch braid on one side, adding hair as you work backward.
• Repeat on the other side, keeping the braid tension even.
• Secure both braids with elastics at the ends.
• Finish with light spray and smooth the hairline if needed.

Best For

• Face shapes: Oval, round, heart
• Hair types: Straight to coily, medium to thick

Tools & Products

• Rat-tail comb
• Hair elastics
• Braid gel or styling cream
• Edge brush
• Light hold spray
• Anti-frizz serum
• Small clips for sectioning

Styling Time & Difficulty

Approx. styling time: 12–18 minutes
Difficulty: Medium

Where This Hairstyle Works Best

This style is great for tournaments, outdoor practice, humid days, junior tennis, and anyone who wants very secure all-day hold.

Maintenance Tips

• Practice your parting first so the braids sit evenly.
• Use a little product on the fingers while braiding if sections keep slipping.
• Do not braid too tightly around the hairline.
• Sleep with a satin scarf if you want to keep the braids for the next day.

Bubble Ponytail Tennis Hairstyle

The bubble ponytail is a fun sporty option that keeps the length controlled without needing a full braid. After creating a ponytail, you add extra elastics down the length to form soft bubble sections.

This style stands out because it feels playful and modern while still being practical for movement. It is especially helpful for medium to long hair and works well if you want something different from a standard ponytail on practice or match day.
Pro tip: Ask your stylist for smooth long layers if you want the bubble sections to look fuller and less uneven.

How To Style

• Start with smooth dry hair or lightly damp hair.
• Apply a lightweight leave-in or smoothing cream.
• Gather the hair into a high or mid ponytail and secure it well.
• Add small elastics every few inches down the ponytail.
• Gently pull each section outward to create rounded bubble shapes.
• Keep the bubbles firm enough that they do not collapse while playing.
• Finish with a light hold spray.

Best For

• Face shapes: Round, oval, heart
• Hair types: Straight to wavy, medium to thick

Tools & Products

• Paddle brush
• Hair elastics
• Small clear elastics
• Leave-in conditioner
• Smoothing cream
• Edge brush
• Light hairspray

Styling Time & Difficulty

Approx. styling time: 8–12 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Where This Hairstyle Works Best

This hairstyle works best for practice, tennis lessons, team matches, and sporty casual days when you want a playful but secure look.

Maintenance Tips

• Carry extra small elastics in your bag in case one snaps.
• Make the main ponytail very secure first so the whole style holds better.
• Avoid pulling the bubbles too loose if you are doing high-movement drills.
• Remove the small elastics carefully to prevent tangling.

High Bun with Headband Tennis Hairstyle

This high bun with a headband is a strong choice if you want your hair fully off your face, neck, and shoulders. The bun keeps the length contained, while the headband helps catch sweat and control shorter pieces around the front.

It is a great option for hot days, hard training sessions, and players who do not want hair bouncing behind them during play. The headband also adds comfort and can make the whole style feel more secure.
Pro tip: Ask your stylist to keep front layers long enough to tuck into the bun or band if you wear your hair up often for sport.

How To Style

• Start with brushed hair that is dry or slightly damp.
• Apply a little smoothing cream or gel at the hairline.
• Gather the hair high on the crown and secure it into a ponytail.
• Twist the ponytail into a bun and pin or wrap it in place.
• Slide on a soft sport headband to hold the front area.
• Adjust the bun so it feels centered and comfortable.
• Finish with a light or medium hold spray.

Best For

• Face shapes: Oval, heart, square
• Hair types: Straight to curly, medium to thick

Tools & Products

• Paddle brush
• Hair elastic
• Bobby pins or second elastic
• Smoothing cream or gel
• Sport headband
• Edge brush
• Medium hold hairspray

Styling Time & Difficulty

Approx. styling time: 6–10 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Where This Hairstyle Works Best

This style is ideal for summer matches, intense drills, long hair, and players who want the cleanest most out-of-the-way feeling.

Maintenance Tips

• Choose a soft headband that grips without causing headaches.
• Reposition the bun if it feels too heavy or pulls on one area.
• Do not make the bun too tight every single day.
• Let your scalp rest after play by taking the style down promptly.

Half-Up Braided Tennis Hairstyle

The half-up braided tennis hairstyle gives you a softer look while still keeping the top and front sections away from your face. The upper half is braided or tied back, while the lower half stays down in a controlled way.

This style works best for lighter practice, tennis lessons, or casual court time when you want something a little prettier and less tightly secured than a full braid or bun. It is especially nice for medium-length hair.
Pro tip: Ask for blended face-framing layers that can tuck neatly into the top section instead of falling across the eyes.

How To Style

• Start with brushed dry hair or lightly textured second-day hair.
• Part the front and crown sections away from the lower half.
• Apply a little smoothing cream or texture spray to the top section.
• Create a small braid or twist with the upper section and secure it back.
• Tighten the top so it stays off the face while moving.
• Smooth the lower lengths or add a little leave-in if needed.
• Finish with light spray to control flyaways.

Best For

• Face shapes: Heart, oval, long
• Hair types: Straight to wavy, fine to medium

Tools & Products

• Paddle brush
• Small elastic
• Texture spray
• Smoothing cream
• Leave-in conditioner
• Light hairspray
• Small clips for sectioning

Styling Time & Difficulty

Approx. styling time: 6–9 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Where This Hairstyle Works Best

It works best for casual hits, tennis lessons, light practice, and sporty off-court looks when you want something softer.

Maintenance Tips

• Tighten the top section more than you think if you plan to move a lot.
• Use this style for lighter tennis days if your hair is very thick or long.
• Refresh loose front pieces with water or a little cream.
• Switch to a full ponytail or braid for higher-intensity matches if needed.

Sleek Low Ponytail Tennis Hairstyle

This sleek low ponytail is simple, neat, and very comfortable, especially if you wear a cap or visor. The hair is kept smooth and controlled at the nape, which creates a clean athletic look without too much bounce.

What makes this style different is how practical and understated it feels. It is a good option if high ponytails bother your scalp or if you prefer a lower, more relaxed placement during play.
Pro tip: Ask for soft long layers that still gather easily into a low ponytail if you wear low styles often.

How To Style

• Start with brushed dry hair or slightly damp hair.
• Apply smoothing cream or a little gel along the top and sides.
• Create a center or soft side part if desired.
• Gather the hair low at the nape and secure with an elastic.
• Brush the top smooth and tighten the ponytail gently.
• Wrap a small section around the elastic for a cleaner finish if desired.
• Finish with anti-frizz mist or light hold spray.

Best For

• Face shapes: Oval, square, heart
• Hair types: Straight to wavy, fine to medium

Tools & Products

• Paddle brush
• Hair elastic
• Smoothing cream or light gel
• Rat-tail comb
• Edge brush
• Anti-frizz mist
• Light hold spray

Styling Time & Difficulty

Approx. styling time: 5–7 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Where This Hairstyle Works Best

This style is best for visor wearers, simple match-day looks, practice sessions, and anyone who prefers a sleek no-fuss hairstyle.

Maintenance Tips

• Keep the nape smooth with a little extra product if shorter hairs slip out.
• Avoid tying it too tightly at the base every day.
• Rebrush quickly between sets if the top starts puffing up.
• Use a silk scrunchie after play to reduce tension.

Single French Braid Tennis Hairstyle

A single French braid is a reliable tennis hairstyle that keeps the hair contained from the hairline all the way down the back. It feels secure, balanced, and practical, especially for medium to long hair.

This version is a nice middle ground between a ponytail and double braids. It is secure enough for active play but still quick once you get used to doing it. It also fits comfortably with many caps or visors.
Pro tip: Ask for healthy trimmed ends and manageable layers so the braid stays clean and does not fray too fast during movement.

How To Style

• Start with brushed hair that is dry or lightly damp.
• Apply a little braid cream or smoothing product through the lengths.
• Begin a French braid at the crown or near the forehead.
• Add hair evenly from both sides as you braid toward the nape.
• Continue into a regular braid once all the hair is included.
• Secure the end with a small elastic.
• Finish with light spray for hold and anti-frizz control.

Best For

• Face shapes: Oval, round, heart
• Hair types: Straight to curly, medium to thick

Tools & Products

• Paddle brush
• Rat-tail comb
• Small hair elastic
• Braid cream
• Edge brush
• Anti-frizz serum
• Light hold hairspray

Styling Time & Difficulty

Approx. styling time: 10–14 minutes
Difficulty: Medium

Where This Hairstyle Works Best

It is ideal for practice, school tennis, outdoor courts, windy conditions, and players who want neat secure control without a bun.

Maintenance Tips

• Keep braid tension even so it feels secure but not too tight.
• Use a little product through the lengths before braiding to reduce frizz.
• Practice on damp hair first if French braiding feels difficult.
• Undo the braid gently after play to prevent tangles at the nape.

Twisted Pigtail Braids Tennis Hairstyle

Twisted pigtail braids give you a secure style with good balance on both sides of the head. The hair is split in two sections and twisted or braided down, which helps reduce movement and keeps everything controlled during play.

This style is especially useful for younger players, long practice sessions, and anyone who likes a sporty hairstyle that feels playful but dependable. It can also be easier to manage than one thick braid if you have very dense hair.
Pro tip: Ask for manageable long layers so both sides can stay even and smooth instead of having too many loose short pieces.

How To Style

• Start with brushed hair and create a clean center part.
• Apply a little styling cream or leave-in to both sections.
• Secure or hold one side out of the way while working on the other.
• Twist or braid each section downward from near the ears or from the scalp.
• Secure both ends with elastics.
• Check that both sides feel even and comfortable.
• Finish with light hold spray and smooth the hairline if needed.

Best For

• Face shapes: Round, oval, heart
• Hair types: Straight to curly, medium to thick

Tools & Products

• Rat-tail comb
• Hair elastics
• Styling cream
• Leave-in conditioner
• Edge brush
• Light hairspray
• Small clips for sectioning

Styling Time & Difficulty

Approx. styling time: 8–12 minutes
Difficulty: Easy to Medium

Where This Hairstyle Works Best

This look works best for junior tennis, practice days, long training sessions, and players who want balanced secure braids with a sporty feel.

Maintenance Tips

• Make the center part clean so both braids sit evenly.
• Keep both sides similar in tension so one does not loosen first.
• Use small elastics that grip well without snagging.
• Redo the front section if needed after a long session instead of over-tightening the whole style.

Final Thoughts

Tennis hairstyles work best when they balance comfort, hold, and ease. A good court style should keep hair out of your face, stay secure through movement, and still feel comfortable enough to wear for a full practice or match.

That is why there is no single best option for everyone. Some players do best with ponytails, some prefer braids, and others want a bun or headband combination that keeps everything completely out of the way. The right choice depends on your hair length, texture, and how intense your play usually is.

Small changes can make a big difference. A stronger elastic, fewer short layers around the front, or adding a braid instead of leaving the ponytail loose can make a hairstyle feel much more practical on court. Working with your natural texture and routine will usually give you the best result.

CTA

Pick one or two tennis hairstyle ideas that match your hair length, texture, and playing style best. Save a few reference photos, test them before match day, and notice which ones stay secure while still feeling comfortable. With a few small adjustments, you can find a tennis hairstyle that feels personal, practical, and easy to wear every time you step on court.

FAQs

1. What hairstyle is best for tennis?

The best tennis hairstyle is one that keeps hair out of your face and stays secure while you move. High ponytails, braids, buns, and Dutch braids are all strong options. The best one for you depends on your hair length, texture, and how much hold you want.

2. Are braids better than ponytails for tennis?

Braids are often more secure than ponytails because they control the length better and reduce swinging and tangling. Ponytails are faster and easier, though, so many players still prefer them. A braided ponytail can give you the best of both.

3. How do I keep my hair from falling out during tennis?

Use strong but gentle elastics, smooth the roots before securing the style, and choose a hairstyle with more hold like braids or a bun. A headband can also help keep shorter front pieces in place. It also helps not to overload your hair with slippery products.

4. Can I wear my hair down for tennis?

It is usually better not to wear your hair fully down for serious play because it can stick to your face, neck, and shoulders. A half-up style may work for light practice or casual court time. For matches or intense movement, tied-up styles are usually more practical.

5. What is the easiest tennis hairstyle to do quickly?

A high ponytail or sleek low ponytail is usually the quickest. Both take only a few minutes and work well for many hair types. If you want a bit more hold, turning the ponytail into a braid is still fairly fast.

6. Are buns good for tennis?

Yes, buns can be excellent for tennis because they keep the hair fully contained and off the neck. A high bun or low braided bun can work especially well. The main thing is making sure the bun feels secure but not too tight.

7. How can I make my tennis hairstyle last longer?

Start with brushed hair, use the right amount of grip or smoothing product, and secure the style firmly with good elastics or pins. Braids and buns usually last longer than loose ponytails. Carrying a spare elastic in your bag also helps.

8. What should I do if I have lots of layers?

Braids, buns, and headbands usually work better if you have many layers. You can also use a little smoothing cream or light gel around the hairline and lengths to keep short pieces tucked in. Asking your stylist to keep sport-friendly layers can also make a difference.

9. Can tennis hairstyles work for curly hair too?

Yes, absolutely. Ponytails, buns, puff styles, braids, and twists can all work well on curly hair. The key is choosing a style that respects your texture and using products that give hold without making the hair feel stiff or dry.

10. Should I use a headband for tennis?

A headband can be very helpful, especially if you deal with sweat, flyaways, or short front pieces. It can make simple styles like buns and ponytails feel much more secure. Soft sport headbands are usually the most comfortable option.