12 Best Tennis Hairstyles for Long Hair

Key Takeaways

Master these essential tennis hairstyles to keep your focus on the game, not your hair falling in your face during crucial points.

• Strategic placement matters most: High ponytails prevent hair from hitting shoulders during swings, while low buns distribute weight evenly to avoid scalp strain and headaches.

• Second-day hair performs best: Natural oils provide better grip than freshly washed strands, making styles more secure throughout intense matches and rallies.

• Double-security styles win matches: Braided ponytails and bubble ponytails use multiple anchor points, so if one section loosens, the entire hairstyle doesn’t collapse mid-game.

• Comfort equals performance: Tight styles cause distracting headaches and potential hair damage, so prioritize comfortable tension that stays secure without causing pain.

• Practice before game day: Test your chosen hairstyle during practice sessions to ensure it withstands your specific movement patterns and sweat levels.

The right tennis hairstyle transforms your game by eliminating distractions and letting you focus entirely on your performance. Whether you choose braids for maximum security or ponytails for quick styling, these proven techniques will keep you looking polished while dominating the court from first serve to match point.

Finding the perfect tennis hairstyles for long hair has been my personal quest for years. When you’re focused on returning that killer serve, the last thing you need is hair whipping across your face or sticking to your sweaty neck.

I’ve tried countless styles on the court, and I’ve learned that comfort isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential for staying focused on your game. Whether you’re a weekend player or hitting the courts daily, having the right hairstyle prevents distractions and actually lets you concentrate on what matters: your match. The tennis world has seen many hairstyles come and go over the years, but some truly stand the test of time. As someone with thick, long hair, I understand the struggle to stay comfortable, cool, and yes, even fashionable while playing.

With the recent surge of “tenniscore” esthetic taking over social media, looking good on the court has never been more relevant. But for us long-haired players, it’s about more than just style—it’s about functionality. That’s why I’ve put together these 12 quick tennis hairstyles that not only look great but also stay firmly in place when you’re running, serving, and reaching for that match point. Let’s dive into some options that will keep you looking stylish while letting you focus on your game.

High Ponytail with Volume

The high ponytail has become a signature tennis hairstyle for good reason. As a hairstylist who works with athletes regularly, I’ve seen firsthand how this classic style combines functionality with that sporty-chic esthetic that’s taking over runways and courts alike. Popularized by top tennis champions, this look isn’t just about style—it’s about keeping your game sharp when every point matters.

How to Create This Look

Creating a voluminous high ponytail that withstands an entire tennis match requires more than just pulling your hair back. Here’s my tried-and-true method:

1. Start by applying a lightweight mousse throughout damp hair—this creates the foundation for volume and hold
2. Use a paddle brush to distribute the product evenly
3. Gather hair at the crown of your head—the height is crucial for preventing hair from falling into your face during play
4. Secure with a strong elastic, pulling tight enough to hold but not so tight it causes headaches
5. Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic to hide it
6. Secure with a bobby pin, tucking ends underneath

Why It Stays Put During Play

The magic of this hairstyle lies in its strategic placement. Positioning the ponytail high on your head prevents hair from hitting your shoulders or getting caught in your arms during swings. Furthermore, the added volume creates tension that helps lock everything in place. Many players struggle with hair slipping or falling forward mid-rally—I’ve lost points myself because of this distraction! A properly executed high pony eliminates this problem entirely.

Best Hair Type for This Style

Through my experience, I’ve found this style works wonderfully for medium to long hair with some natural body. Straight hair tends to slip more easily, whereas slightly wavy or textured hair has natural grip. If you have particularly heavy or thick locks, consider adding extra security with a second elastic. Conversely, those with fine hair might need additional volumizing product at the roots for staying power.

Quick Styling Tips

For maximum hold throughout your match, try these professional secrets:

• Slightly dampen hair before styling—completely dry hair is more prone to flyaways
• Apply hairspray to your brush before smoothing back your hair to tame baby hairs
• Consider a high-quality elastic that won’t stretch out during intense movement
• For extra security, cross two bobby pins in an X-shape where you’ve wrapped the hair
• If you experience “ponytail headaches,” loosen slightly and reposition—traction alopecia from too-tight styles is a real concern

The high ponytail with volume isn’t just practical—it’s become part of the tennis esthetic that translates from court to casual wear. This versatile style keeps hair secure while letting you focus on what matters: your game.

Double Dutch Braids

As a hairstylist who works with athletes regularly, Dutch braids have become my go-to recommendation for tennis players with long locks. These inverted braids not only look stylish on court but offer unparalleled security during those intense rallies and swift lateral movements.

How to Create This Look

Creating double Dutch braids might seem complicated at first, yet once mastered, you’ll complete them in minutes:

• Start by brushing through your hair to remove tangles
• Create a clean center part from forehead to nape
• Secure one section with a hair tie to keep it out of the way
• Take a small section near the hairline and divide into three equal strands
• Begin Dutch braiding by crossing the side strands under the middle strand (unlike French braids where you cross over)
• Continue adding hair from each side as you braid downward
• Once all hair is incorporated, finish with a regular braid to the ends
• Secure with a snag-free elastic
• Repeat on the second side

For tennis, I recommend positioning the braids closer to your center part rather than at the temples—this prevents uncomfortable pressure when wearing visors or caps.

Why It Stays Put During Play

Double Dutch braids have become a favorite among athletes for good reason. The underhanded braiding technique creates a structure that actually tightens with movement instead of loosening. Additionally, this style distributes hair weight evenly across your head, eliminating that uncomfortable “heavy spot” feeling that can throw off your balance during crucial points.

I’ve watched players switch from ponytails to Dutch braids and immediately notice fewer distractions. Even after intense three-set matches, these braids remain intact without requiring mid-game adjustments.

Best Hair Type for This Style

Through my experience, Dutch braids work exceptionally well for most hair types. Straight, thick hair holds these braids beautifully, although those with fine hair may benefit from applying texturizing spray beforehand. For curly or coiled hair types, you might prefer straightening before braiding for smoother results, yet many of my curly-haired clients enjoy the added grip their texture provides.

Second or third-day hair typically yields the best results since freshly-washed strands can be too slippery. Nevertheless, don’t worry if you’ve just shampooed—a bit of dry shampoo or texturizing product creates sufficient friction.

Quick Styling Tips

To maximize the effectiveness of your Dutch braids on the tennis court:

• Apply a leave-in conditioner before braiding to protect hair from sun exposure
• Use clear elastics that won’t catch on your racquet during overhead serves
• For added security, incorporate small clear elastics along the braids—especially helpful if you have layered hair
• “Pancake” your braids after completion by gently pulling on the edges for a fuller look
• Lightly mist with hairspray to tame flyaways without creating stiffness

The beauty of Double Dutch braids lies in their versatility—they transition perfectly from morning practice to afternoon matches without requiring any touch-ups between sessions.

Sleek Low Bun

When heavy hair becomes too much to handle on court, the sleek low bun offers an elegant solution that both looks polished and performs brilliantly. Through my years of styling athletes’ hair, I’ve discovered this timeless option works wonderfully for tennis players struggling with hair that’s too long or thick for high styles.

How to Create This Look

Creating a sleek low bun that actually stays put requires precision and the right products:

1. Start with your hair down, parted in your preferred style—second or third-day hair works best for grip
2. Spritz with a conditioning mist for added sheen and hold
3. Brush your hair smoothly into a low ponytail using a soft bristle brush
4. Secure with a strong elastic at the nape of your neck
5. Apply a small amount of gel to smooth flyaways
6. Hold the ponytail base with your index finger while twisting hair around it
7. Continue twisting until the hair forms a bun shape
8. Secure with bobby pins around the perimeter
9. Finish with a light mist of strong-hold hairspray

The key is positioning the bun neither too high nor too low—right about middle-upper ear area provides optimal balance.

Why It Stays Put During Play

In my experience working with competitive players, the low placement makes all the difference. Higher buns become painful as heavy hair pulls on the scalp throughout a match. Moreover, the low position prevents your hair from swinging around and smacking you in the face or getting caught in your racquet mid-rally—a frustrating distraction that has cost many players crucial points.

The sleek, tight nature of this style distributes weight evenly, reducing strain on any one area of the scalp. This positioning consequently helps avoid traction alopecia, a real concern for athletes who regularly wear tight hairstyles.

Best Hair Type for This Style

This versatile style works for most hair types, though second-day hair typically offers better grip than freshly washed strands. For those with fine hair, texturizing spray beforehand adds necessary friction. Thick-haired players often find this style particularly comfortable compared to higher options that create painful tension.

Quick Styling Tips

After countless hours styling tennis players, I’ve gathered these essential tips:

• Loosen your hair tie immediately after playing to prevent scalp strain
• For ultra-sleek finish, spray your brush with hairspray before smoothing
• Use a hair bungee instead of a regular elastic for customizable tension
• If your bun feels tilted, gently shift it to center before securing fully
• Alternate this style with looser options to minimize potential hair damage

Remember that comfort is key—if it hurts or pulls, start over until it feels right. Even the most beautiful style isn’t worth the distraction of pain during an intense match point.

Braided High Ponytail

I often notice the braided high ponytail on female athletes sprinting across tennis courts—a style that combines functionality with flair. This isn’t just any hairstyle; it’s a strategic choice made by players who need their hair to stay put through intense matches. As someone who’s styled hair for competitive players, I’ve seen firsthand how this particular style withstands even the most vigorous gameplay.

How to Create This Look

Creating a braided high ponytail that truly stays secure requires precision:

• Start with a tight, high ponytail positioned at the crown of your head
• Secure it firmly with a strong elastic or bungee elastic for maximum hold
• Prep your hair by running a leave-in conditioner through the ponytail—this helps keep everything in place during the braiding process
• Divide the ponytail into three equal sections
• Begin braiding in your preferred style (classic three-strand, fishtail, or twisted)
• Secure the braid immediately once you notice the first layers beginning to poke through
• For extra security, add multiple hair bands as you move down the braid
• Finish with a strong elastic at the end

Why It Stays Put During Play

First and foremost, this style works exceptionally well for tennis because it combines two secure elements: the high anchor point keeps hair off your neck, while the braid prevents strands from flying into your face. In my experience, players choose this style precisely because it maintains its structure through swift movements and sudden turns on court.

The tight braid creates a cohesive unit that moves as one piece rather than separate strands that could distract you during crucial points. Additionally, the multiple securing points (at the base and along the braid) ensure that even if one elastic loosens, the entire style doesn’t fall apart.

Best Hair Type for This Style

In truth, this versatile style works for most hair types. Nevertheless, those with medium to thick hair typically achieve the most secure results as the texture provides natural grip. Second or third-day hair often works better than freshly washed strands since a bit of natural oil helps the braid hold its shape.

Quick Styling Tips

Throughout my years styling athletes’ hair, I’ve gathered these essential tips:

• Apply hair mousse before creating your ponytail for added grip and hold
• For second-day hair, use dry shampoo at the roots to absorb excess oil
• Spritz hairspray on your hands before smoothing flyaways around your hairline
• To prevent tension headaches, ensure your ponytail isn’t pulled too tight at the scalp
• Players with layers should secure them with multiple bands along the braid
• For extra security, wrap a small section of hair around the base elastic and pin it underneath

Indeed, the braided high ponytail has become popular with tennis stars like Anna Kournikova and Ana Ivanovic for good reason—it’s both stylish and supremely functional.

French Braid into Low Ponytail

The French braid into low ponytail has been my secret weapon for countless tennis matches. This elegant yet practical style creates a secure foundation while maintaining comfort—perfect for those lengthy three-set battles where hair issues are the last distraction you need.

How to Create This Look

Creating this versatile tennis hairstyle takes just 5-10 minutes with a bit of practice:

• Gather your essentials: comb, 1-2 bobby pins, and a strong hair tie
• Start by parting your hair down the middle from forehead to crown
• Begin French braiding at the front hairline, taking reasonably large sections
• Cross the right strand over the middle, then left over middle
• As you continue, add hair from each side into your braid
• Keep braiding until you reach the crown or back of your head
• Secure all remaining hair into a low ponytail at the base of your neck
• For a polished finish, wrap a small piece from the underside around the hair tie
• Secure with a bobby pin or two for extra hold

Why It Stays Put During Play

First off, this style distributes tension evenly across your head, preventing that nagging scalp pain many tennis players experience. Furthermore, the French braid component keeps hair securely against your head while the low ponytail position prevents swinging and flipping during quick directional changes. It’s exceptionally useful for players with bangs or shorter layers that typically fall forward mid-match.

Best Hair Type for This Style

Through years of styling tennis players’ hair, I’ve found this works wonderfully for most long hair types. Second or third-day hair typically holds better due to natural texture. Straight hair creates a sleeker finish, whereas wavy or curly hair offers additional grip that enhances staying power.

Quick Styling Tips

To maximize this hairstyle’s performance:

• Gently tug the braid loops outward after completion for a fuller, more secure hold
• Dampen hair slightly before braiding for enhanced grip
• Opt for a fabric-covered elastic that won’t snag or break mid-match
• Keep bobby pins in your tennis bag for quick touch-ups between sets

This style has rescued me from countless bad hair days on court while maintaining both functionality and style.

Bubble Ponytail

The bubble ponytail has recently caught fire among tennis players seeking both style and functionality. Throughout my career styling athletes’ hair, I’ve watched this playful variation of the classic ponytail become a court favorite—plus, it’s remarkably easy to create even when you’re rushing to an early morning match.

How to Create This Look

Creating this eye-catching style takes surprisingly little time—approximately 10 seconds for a basic version. Here’s my foolproof method:

• Start with a regular high or mid ponytail secured with a strong elastic
• Add another hair tie 2-3 inches down from the first one
• Gently pull at the hair between the two ties to create your first “bubble”
• Continue adding elastics down the length of your ponytail
• Carefully tug each section outward to form uniform bubbles
• Finish with a light-hold hairspray to maintain shape

For tennis, I recommend clear or hair-colored elastics that won’t distract during play. Second or third-day hair works perfectly as the natural texture provides better grip.

Why It Stays Put During Play

The genius of the bubble ponytail lies in its structure. Each section is independently secured, thus if one bubble loosens during an intense rally, the entire hairstyle doesn’t collapse. Furthermore, the ponytail format keeps hair completely off your neck while you sweat—a blessing during those three-hour summer matches!

Professional tennis player CiCi Bellis popularized this style precisely because it stays put through intense movement. I’ve had clients report they no longer need to adjust their hair between points, allowing full concentration on their game.

Best Hair Type for This Style

Through my experience with various clients, I’ve found this style works beautifully for most long hair types. Fine-haired players should apply texturizing spray beforehand for extra grip. Meanwhile, those with thick, heavy hair often find this style distributes weight more comfortably than a single ponytail.

Quick Styling Tips

To maximize your bubble ponytail’s staying power:

• Use adjustable scrunchies that you can tighten for security without causing headaches
• For sweaty matches, prep with dry shampoo at the roots
• Keep bobby pins in your tennis bag for quick touch-ups
• Consider smaller bubbles for faster movement—they tend to stay more secure
• Dampen hair slightly before styling for better control

This playful yet practical style has saved countless tennis matches from hair disasters—giving you one less thing to worry about as you focus on crushing that serve.

Top Knot with Braided Base

For players seeking the ultimate combination of security and style on the tennis court, a top knot with braided base has become my favorite recommendation. This inventive style marries the security of a Dutch braid with the elegant practicality of a top knot, creating a look that truly withstands the most vigorous tennis sessions.

How to Create This Look

Creating this secure tennis hairstyle requires precision and patience:

• Begin by sectioning off a large portion of hair at the crown for the bun, temporarily securing it with a clip
• Start a Dutch braid (crossing strands underneath each other) at your hairline
• Continue braiding around the back of your head, eventually trailing upward along the right side
• Once all loose hair is incorporated into the braid, finish with a regular braid and gently loosen edges for fullness
• Position the braid behind where it began and pin securely against your head
• Release your crown section and create a ponytail with two wraps of an elastic
• Spread the base of the ponytail in a circular pattern (as if covering a donut)
• Twist remaining hair and wrap it around the base, securing with bobby pins

Why It Stays Put During Play

The genius behind this style for tennis lies in its dual-security approach. The Dutch braid creates a secure foundation that anchors the style, practically eliminating the chance of hair falling loose during intense rallies. Furthermore, the high placement keeps hair completely off your neck—ideal for hot summer matches where cooling off becomes essential.

Best Hair Type for This Style

This versatile style works beautifully for medium to long hair with some natural texture. Second or third-day hair typically performs best since the slight natural oils help maintain grip throughout your match. For players with finer hair, a texturizing spray beforehand creates necessary friction.

Quick Styling Tips

After years of using this style both personally and professionally, I’ve gathered these essential tips:

• Secure with multiple bobby pins in a crisscross pattern for maximum hold
• Apply light hairspray after completion, focusing on the hairline
• For thicker hair, create a slightly tighter braid at the base
• Practice this style before an important match—speed comes with repetition

Side Fishtail Braid

The side fishtail braid has saved my tennis matches on countless bad hair days. As someone with thick, unruly locks, I’ve found this elegant yet secure style perfectly balances beauty with practicality on court.

How to Create This Look

• Create a deep side part for dramatic effect
• Gather hair to the opposite side of your part
• Divide your gathered hair into two equal sections
• Take a small piece from the outer edge of one section
• Cross it over, adding it to the opposite section
• Repeat with the other side, alternating sides as you go
• Secure with a clear elastic when complete
• Gently tug the edges outward to create fullness

Why It Stays Put During Play

The magic of this braid lies in its structure—each crossover creates a secure anchor point that prevents slipping. Moreover, positioning it to one side keeps hair from hitting your shoulders during serves or getting caught in your racquet.

Best Hair Type for This Style

The side fishtail works beautifully for medium to thick hair. Second-day hair typically yields the best results as freshly-washed strands can be too slippery.

Quick Styling Tips

For maximum hold, start with slightly damp hair and add texturizing spray. Pull the braid slightly tighter than comfortable initially, as it will naturally loosen during play. Finally, wrap the finished braid around the back of your head and pin for even greater security.

Half-Up Top Knot

The half-up top knot has rescued me from countless tennis catastrophes over the years. As a player with thick, unmanageable locks, I’ve grown to appreciate this versatile style that offers the perfect balance between keeping hair controlled yet comfortable during intense matches.

How to Create This Look

Creating this practical style requires minimal effort:

• Start with dry hair, ideally second or third-day hair for better grip
• Gather the top section of your hair from your temples back before hitting the crown
• Secure this section with an elastic, pulling hair through completely
• On the final loop, pull hair only 2/3 through, leaving the ends out for that perfectly undone look
• Twist the hair tie again around this loop to create your knot
• Gently tug at the bun to create desired messiness and volume

Why It Stays Put During Play

The genius of this style for tennis lies in its strategic placement. With half your hair secured on top, you’ll avoid that annoying sensation of strands sticking to your sweaty neck. Additionally, the knot sits comfortably under visors or caps without creating pressure points or uncomfortable bulk.

Best Hair Type for This Style

This adaptable style works wonderfully for all hair types but shines exceptionally for those with medium to thick hair. For fine-haired players, a texturizing spray beforehand adds necessary grip and prevents slipping during vigorous movement.

Quick Styling Tips

For maximum staying power on court, spray dry shampoo directly onto your roots beforehand for added texture and grip. Afterward, secure any stubborn pieces with bobby pins, making sure they’re crossed for superior hold.

Twisted Low Bun

The twisted low bun remains my most reliable tennis hairstyle when I need something that truly stays put throughout intense matches. Its elegant simplicity combined with remarkable functionality makes it perfect for those days when my focus needs to be entirely on my game.

How to Create This Look

Creating this tennis-friendly bun takes minimal effort:

• Begin by brushing through your hair to remove tangles
• Gather hair at the nape of your neck
• Twist the entire section together firmly
• Continue twisting while wrapping hair around itself to form a “knot” shape
• Secure with bobby pins around the perimeter
• Finish with light hairspray to tame flyaways

Why It Stays Put During Play

The magic of this style lies in its strategic low placement. According to trichologists, lower hairstyles minimize the torque applied during motion, whereas higher styles act like pendulums with each movement. Furthermore, this style distributes weight evenly across your head, preventing the strain that causes those annoying mid-match headaches.

Best Hair Type for This Style

This versatile style works beautifully for most long hair types. Second-day hair typically yields better grip. For those with very straight hair, a texturizing spray beforehand creates necessary friction.

Quick Styling Tips

Spray bobby pins with dry shampoo before insertion for extra hold. Additionally, crossing pins in an X-pattern secures even the thickest hair. Certainly don’t pull too tight—comfort is essential for maintaining focus throughout your match!

Braided Crown with Ponytail

A braided crown with ponytail might seem fancy for the tennis court, yet I’ve found this combination to be absolutely game-changing. Unlike traditional styles, this look creates a beautiful headband effect with functional staying power.

How to Create This Look

Getting this tennis-ready style requires simple steps:

• Flip your hair over and gather into a semi-loose ponytail near your fringe
• Secure with a neutral-colored elastic
• Create a three-strand braid along your entire ponytail
• Bring the braid across your forehead toward your far ear
• Secure behind your ear with pins
• For additional security, pull sections gently for fullness

Why It Stays Put During Play

The genius behind this style lies in its distribution of weight. As stylist Ursula Stephen explains, “This style works in sports because there is no tension on the scalp and the hair, but it still keeps the hair in control”. The braid serves as your built-in headband, preventing frustrating forehead flyaways.

Best Hair Type for This Style

Second or third-day hair performs magnificently since natural oils provide essential grip. Nonetheless, this versatile style accommodates most lengths above shoulder-length.

Quick Styling Tips

Apply texturizing product beforehand for extra security. Likewise, keep extra pins in your tennis bag for quick adjustments between sets. For tournament-worthy longevity, hairstylist Matt Fugate suggests “securing the braid with multiple bands as you move down”.

Double Ponytails with Twists

Double ponytails with twists have become my absolute favorite recommendation for clients seeking a foolproof tennis hairstyle. As a hairstylist frequently working with athletic clients, I’ve seen firsthand how this style remains intact through even the most intense matches.

How to Create This Look

Creating this secure style takes just 2-3 minutes once you’ve mastered the technique:

• Start by separating hair into two sections—one below crown, another at nape
• Secure both sections into ponytails with strong elastics
• Apply flexible hairspray at the roots for extra hold
• Take a small section from each ponytail and wrap around the elastic to conceal
• Split the top ponytail into two equal parts
• Twist each section clockwise before wrapping them around each other counterclockwise
• Continue twisting until reaching the second ponytail, then repeat the same method
• Secure the end with an elastic and add a simple accessory if desired

Why It Stays Put During Play

This style excels for athletic activities including tennis, basketball, and dance. The genius lies in its dual-security approach—if one section loosens, the other remains intact. Additionally, the twisting technique creates a structure that actually tightens with movement.

Best Hair Type for This Style

This versatile style works beautifully for most long hair types. For maximum hold, slightly damp hair provides ideal grip. Second-day hair typically performs better than freshly washed due to natural texture.

Quick Styling Tips

For optimal results, apply a small amount of pomade before twisting to control flyaways. Simultaneously, consider using adjustable scrunchies that you can tighten for personalized security without causing headaches. Granted, this style takes practice, yet once mastered, it becomes an effortless go-to for tennis matches.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect tennis hairstyle truly makes a difference between distraction and focus during crucial match points. Throughout my years as both a player and stylist, I’ve witnessed firsthand how the right hairstyle can transform not just appearance but performance on court. My clients often tell me they play better simply because they’re no longer fighting with their hair every few minutes!

These twelve hairstyles offer something for everyone regardless of hair type or styling ability. French braids provide exceptional security for intense rallies, while bubble ponytails add a playful touch without sacrificing functionality. Low buns distribute weight evenly to prevent uncomfortable pulling, whereas high ponytails keep sweaty strands completely away from your face and neck.

Second-day hair works best for most tennis styles, something I discovered the hard way after numerous mid-match hair disasters early in my career. Additionally, keeping a few extra elastics and bobby pins in your tennis bag can save even the most secure styles when things get particularly intense during a tiebreaker.

Comfort remains absolutely essential when choosing your tennis hairstyle. A beautiful style means nothing if it causes headaches or requires constant adjustment between points. After all, tennis demands complete concentration – the last thing you need is hair worries distracting you from that critical serve.

Remember that practice makes perfect with these styles. Before an important match, test your chosen hairstyle during practice to ensure it holds up to your specific movement patterns and sweat level. Your perfect tennis hairstyle awaits – one that stays put from first serve through match point while letting your natural beauty shine. Game, set, match!