A clay court is a tennis surface made from crushed brick or stone. The surface feels softer than hard courts. Clay slows the ball after it hits. It also creates a higher bounce. Players often slide into shots on clay. This movement helps them reach wide balls. Long rallies are common on this surface. Patience and stamina become very important. Heavy topspin shots work especially well on clay. For example a player may hit high bouncing forehands. Their opponent struggles to control the rising ball. Points often last much longer than on hard courts. Clay rewards strategy and careful shot placement. Success on clay requires discipline and strong footwork.