You may or may not be surprised to hear this, but the tennis culture in Lagos is going through a revival. With more people posting about their tennis journey, organizing matches between themselves, having fun, or just the aesthetics—hello, tennis skirts and crisp white sneakers– Lagos has a solid selection of courts that serve more than just vibes.
From elite clubs to accessible public options, here’s where to play tennis in Lagos, no matter your skill level.
1. Lagos Lawn Tennis Club
This is where it all began. Located in Onikan, the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club is Nigeria’s oldest tennis club and home to several major tournaments, including the Lagos Open. It’s the real deal, with proper clay courts, coaching, and an old-money charm that makes every match feel Olympic-level serious.
Location: 12 Tafawa Balewa Road, Lagos Island.
Access: Membership required; non-members can sometimes access with a day pass or as guests
Perks: Professional coaching, tournaments, historical prestige
Best for: Intermediate to advanced players, serious learners, and anyone who likes a little tradition with their top spin.
2. Ikoyi Club 1938
If you have access, the Ikoyi Club is an all-in-one social, sports, and networking club, but their tennis courts are a standout feature. Well-maintained and often active with friendly matches and league games, it’s a great place to up your game and catch up with Lagos elites mid-rally.
Location: 6 Ikoyi Club 1938 Road, Ikoyi.
Access: Strictly members-only
Perks: Great lighting, friendly competition, post-match drinks at the clubhouse
Best for: Leisure matches, social tennis, and people who don’t mind mixing forehands with networking.
3. Teslim Balogun Stadium Courts
Not everyone wants a membership fee that feels like rent. Luckily, Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere has public tennis courts that are both affordable and functional. They may not come with towel service, but they get the job done, especially if you’re just trying to practice, train, or pick up the sport.
Location: Alh. Masha Road, Surulere.
Access: Open to the public; hourly court fees apply
Budget: ₦1,000–₦3,000/hour depending on time and booking
Best for: New players, casual hitters, and anyone who wants no-frills tennis on a budget.
4. VGC Club
If you’re based around the Lekki-Ajah axis, VGC Club has tennis courts within its private gated estate. It’s a little quieter than the major city spots, but it has solid coaching, less crowded courts, and a built-in community for weekend rallies and friendly matches.
Location: Victoria Garden City (VGC), Lekki.
Access: Membership or resident guest access only
Perks: Calm atmosphere, family-friendly coaching, clean facilities
Best for: Lekki locals, parents introducing their kids to tennis, or anyone craving chill games in a quiet corner of the city.
.5. UNILAG Sports Centre
If you’re on the mainland and just want somewhere simple to play without all the formality, UNILAG’s tennis courts get the job done. Students and staff mostly use it, but weekend players and locals pull up too. No fancy clubhouse here, just basic courts, and that campus energy that keeps it relaxed and affordable.
Location: UNILAG Sports Centre, Akoka, Yaba.
Access: Students and staff play for free; a small gate fee for the public on weekends
Perks: Two outdoor courts, group coaching, student-friendly pricing
Best for: Casual games, mainland locals, and anyone who wants to play without overthinking it.
.6. Padel House
If you’re looking for something a little different from the usual tennis routine, Padel House in Ikoyi brings the fun indoors. It’s Lagos’s first padel-dedicated space, with glass-walled courts, lively doubles matches, and a young, social crowd that keeps things light but competitive. There’s a café and lounge, so even if you’re just watching or waiting, it still feels like a good place to be.
Location: 41 Ribadu Road, Ikoyi.
Access: Open to the public; book via app or walk-in
Perks: Indoor padel courts, social tournaments, coaching, café, gear rentals
Best for: People who want to try something new, after-work hitters, and anyone who likes their rallies with a side of vibes.
Whether you’re training for Wimbledon or just want to wear a pleated skirt, Lagos has a court for that. So, get a racket, tie your headband, and hit the court, because outside isn’t just for parties; sometimes it’s for perfecting your service.
