Tennis tournaments are organized competitions where players compete against each other in the sport of tennis. These events can vary in size and prestige, ranging from local matches to major international competitions like the Grand Slam tournaments, which include the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open. Players earn ranking points based on their performance, which can affect their standing in the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) or the Women's Tennis Association (WTA). Tournaments typically follow a knockout format, where players must win matches to advance to the next round. They can be held on different surfaces, such as grass, clay, or hard courts, each affecting gameplay and player performance. Tournaments also provide opportunities for players to showcase their skills, gain experience, and earn prize money.