Tennis days can be long, hot, and intense, so girls need hairstyles that stay put, feel comfortable, and still look cute in every rally and selfie. The right tennis hairstyle keeps hair off the face, reduces tangles, and works with visors, hats, and sweatbands without constant fixing between points. From classic ponytails seen on pros to sporty braids that barely budge, there are plenty of options to match hair length, texture, and personal style. Many of these looks use simple braids, strong elastics, and a few bobby pins, so they’re easy for girls or parents to do before practice or a big match. This list walks through practical, game-ready tennis hairstyles for girls that balance function, comfort, and style on and off the court.
1. High Ponytail Tennis Hairstyle
Nothing feels more sporty on the court than a high ponytail that swings but still keeps hair off the face and neck. This look works best for girls with medium to long hair and is quick to do before school matches or weekend tournaments. Brush hair up toward the crown, smooth the sides with your hands or a little light gel, and secure tightly with a strong, no-slip elastic. The key is placing the ponytail high enough so it clears the collar and does not hit the shoulders with every stroke, which can be annoying during long rallies. Pair it with a visor or headband to control flyaways and keep sweat off the forehead while still looking polished in photos.
2. Low Ponytail With Headband
For girls who prefer less pull on the scalp, a low ponytail with a headband feels comfortable and secure for long matches. Start by slipping on a soft, no-slip athletic headband to catch sweat and keep bangs or shorter layers away from the eyes. Then gather the rest of the hair at the nape of the neck and tie it with a sturdy elastic so the ponytail rests gently along the upper back. This placement works really well with tennis hats or helmets for other sports, because it doesn’t bump into the back of a cap. It’s a great option for fine or medium hair that can slide out of high styles, and it still looks neat for team photos after the match.
3. Braided Ponytail For Tennis
When a regular ponytail isn’t strong enough to handle wind and constant movement, turning it into a braided ponytail is a smart upgrade. Create a mid or high ponytail first, secure it tightly, and then braid the ponytail all the way to the ends before adding another elastic. This keeps strands locked together so they don’t separate or tangle, especially for girls with long or thick hair that usually gets messy by the second set. A braided ponytail also reduces whip against the neck and shoulders, which some players find distracting. It works with most hair textures, and you can finish with a light mist of flexible hairspray or leave-in to reduce frizz without making the hair stiff.
4. Bubble Ponytail For Tennis
A bubble ponytail adds fun and style without sacrificing practicality on the court. To create it, pull hair into a high or mid ponytail, then place small elastics every few inches down the length, gently tugging each section to form rounded “bubbles.” This structure keeps hair from tangling and stops the ponytail from whipping around too much while running and serving. It works especially well on long or medium hair and looks great in photos because it has a cute, dimensional shape that stands out. Girls who like trendy touches will love that this look shows up on pro players and social media, yet still stays secure through intense rallies and drills.
5. Double Braids Tennis Hairstyle
Double braids are a favorite for active girls because they lock everything down and feel balanced on both sides of the head. Part the hair straight down the middle, then create a French or Dutch braid on each side, working from the front hairline toward the nape and securing with elastics. This style hugs the scalp so there’s almost no movement, which means fewer distractions during sprints and serves. It works surprisingly well even on shorter or bob-length hair, because the braids grab little layers that would otherwise escape. Double braids also fit easily under visors and caps, making them perfect for tournaments that last all day in the sun.
6. Fishtail Braid For Tennis
A fishtail braid gives girls a more intricate look while still keeping hair contained during matches and practice. Start by pulling hair into a low ponytail or gathering it at one side, then split it into two sections and cross small strands from each side over to the other to build the fishtail pattern. The result is a tight, rope-like braid that holds together better than a loose three-strand braid, especially for long hair. This style is ideal for players who want something stylish for tournaments or team photos but still need a reliable, functional hairstyle. It looks polished with a visor or without any accessories, and you can gently loosen pieces for a softer look after leaving the court.
7. High Bun Tennis Hairstyle
A high bun is perfect for girls who hate hair touching their neck or getting caught in their shirt collar while playing. To create it, gather hair into a high ponytail at the crown, twist the length, and then wrap it around the base before securing with an elastic and a few pins. This keeps all the hair compact and off the shoulders, which is helpful in hot weather or long tournaments. The high position also works well with visors, because the bun sits above the back strap and does not interfere with the fit. This hairstyle is especially good for girls with thick or heavy hair who want maximum comfort and minimal bouncing as they move around the court.
8. Low Bun Tennis Hairstyle
Some girls prefer the stability of a low bun that sits neatly at the nape of the neck and fits easily with hats and headbands. This style starts with a low ponytail, then the hair is twisted and wrapped into a compact bun secured with a strong elastic and, if needed, a few bobby pins. It keeps hair tidy, prevents tangling, and stays comfortable even when leaning back or stretching for overhead shots. A low bun can be sleek and smooth or slightly relaxed, depending on preference, making it versatile for everyday practice and match days. Pairing it with a soft headband adds extra sweat control and keeps small front pieces from slipping loose mid-game.
9. Tennis Ponytail With Visor
Many tennis players rely on the classic ponytail with visor combo for sun protection and simple styling. To get this look, place hair in a mid or high ponytail, then slide the visor on so the strap sits above the base of the ponytail. This helps keep the visor secure while also keeping hair off the face and forehead. It works well for most hair lengths that can be gathered into a ponytail, including shoulder-length cuts. Girls benefit from the shade and reduced glare during outdoor matches, and the ponytail keeps things easy to brush out and restyle after leaving the court.
10. Tennis Ponytail With Headband
A tennis ponytail with a headband is a great solution for girls with layered cuts or shorter pieces around the face that tend to fall forward. Begin by putting on a wide, stretchy athletic headband that covers the hairline and sits just behind the ears. Then gather the rest of the hair into a mid or high ponytail, securing it firmly with a no-slip elastic. The headband absorbs sweat and locks down flyaways, while the ponytail keeps length controlled and out of the way during rallies. This look is practical for daily practice and also looks clean and sporty for team photos or tournaments.
11. Half Up Half Down Tennis Hairstyle
Some girls like a softer look, and a half up half down tennis hairstyle gives that feel while still being functional on the court. Gather the top half of the hair, from temples back toward the crown, and secure it with an elastic or small clip, leaving the lower half loose. This keeps hair out of the face but still lets some length move freely, which can feel more comfortable for girls who dislike tight updos. It works best for practice days, light drills, or casual matches rather than intense tournaments where maximum security is needed. A headband or a few pins can help control shorter pieces, and the look transitions easily to off-court plans without restyling.
12. Dutch Braid Ponytail For Tennis
A Dutch braid ponytail combines scalp-hugging security with the easy movement of a ponytail. Start by creating a Dutch braid from the front hairline back toward the crown, adding hair under the braid sections so it sits raised on top. Once you reach the crown, secure everything into a ponytail and either leave it loose or braid the tail. This style keeps the top and sides tight, which helps prevent flyaways around the face and keeps the hair anchored during quick movements. It is especially useful for thick or slippery hair that tends to slide out of plain ponytails, offering both style and strong hold during long sessions.
13. French Braid Tennis Hairstyle
A single French braid is a classic sporty hairstyle that works for many different hair lengths. Begin at the crown or slightly closer to the forehead, then add small sections of hair as you braid down the back of the head toward the nape. Secure the end with an elastic so the braid stays tight from top to bottom. This look keeps hair close to the scalp, making it less likely to move or loosen during matches. It is a great choice for girls who need a secure style for all-day tournaments, and it fits comfortably with visors, hats, or sweatbands.
14. Double Dutch Braids For Tennis
Double Dutch braids offer a bold, sporty look that stays in place even during the most intense games. Part the hair down the center, then create a Dutch braid on each side, starting near the front hairline and working toward the nape. Because the braids sit raised, they feel secure and rarely slip, even on finer hair types. Once you reach the nape, you can either finish each braid all the way down or secure them into small ponytails. This hairstyle is particularly good for long practice days or tournaments because it keeps hair controlled and still looks cute if a girl takes off her visor or headband afterward.
15. Tennis Top Knot For Girls
A tennis top knot is a tighter, more compact version of a high bun that is especially popular in sporty “tenniscore” looks. To create it, pull hair into a high ponytail, twist it firmly, and wrap it tightly around the base, securing with an elastic and a few pins so it doesn’t loosen. This creates a small, snug knot at the crown that barely moves while running or jumping. It’s a great option for medium to long hair and works with both straight and wavy textures, especially when you want everything away from your neck. The top knot looks sharp with pleated skirts and athletic outfits, making it a favorite for girls who love a clean, minimal tennis look.
16. Braided Headband Tennis Hairstyle
A braided headband hairstyle is perfect for girls who want to keep their hair down but still control the front sections during play. Take a small section of hair from behind one ear, braid it, and then wrap it across the front of the head like a headband, securing it behind the opposite ear with pins. The rest of the hair can stay loose, be pulled into a low ponytail, or gathered in a small bun, depending on how much movement the player is comfortable with. This braided band stops bangs or shorter layers from falling into the eyes while still giving a softer, more relaxed look overall. It’s best for lighter practice days or warm-ups rather than intense matches where maximum hold is needed.
17. Curly Ponytail Tennis Hairstyle
Girls with naturally curly or coily hair can still enjoy a sporty, practical look with a curly ponytail that respects their texture. Start by applying a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to damp hair to define curls and reduce frizz, then gather the hair into a mid or high ponytail. Use a soft, snag-free elastic or a stretchy band that won’t damage curls. This style keeps curls contained but still lets them show off their volume and bounce behind the head. Pairing the curly ponytail with a wide headband or scarf-style band can protect the edges and keep sweat away from the hairline during active play.
18. Short Hair Tennis Hairstyle With Clips
Short hair can still work well on the tennis court with a simple clip-based hairstyle that keeps everything controlled. Girls with chin-length or shorter cuts can use small, secure hair clips or barrettes to pin back the front and sides, focusing on keeping pieces away from the eyes. You can add a thin headband for extra hold and then tuck any longer back pieces behind the ears. This approach keeps short hair practical without needing ponytails or braids that might not hold. It is ideal for young girls who are growing out shorter cuts or bobs and need a quick, low-effort solution before practices and matches.
19. Pigtail Braids For Tennis
Pigtail braids are playful and practical, making them a popular choice for younger tennis players. Part the hair down the middle and create a braid on each side, starting at about ear level or slightly higher and working down to the ends. This keeps each side of the hair contained separately, which reduces tangling and makes it easier to brush out after practice. Pigtail braids work well on medium and long hair and can be worn with or without a headband or visor. The style feels secure but not too tight, which is nice for kids who dislike heavy tension on their scalp during long days on the court.
20. Tennis Braided Bun For Girls
A braided bun brings together the hold of braids with the comfort of a bun, making it a strong choice for serious match days. Start by pulling hair into a high or low ponytail, then braid the ponytail and wrap it around the base to form a bun, securing everything with an elastic and pins. The braid adds texture and structure to the bun so it’s less likely to unravel during intense movement. This style is especially helpful for girls with long or very thick hair that can feel heavy in loose ponytails. It stays compact, works under visors or hats, and still looks neat when the match ends and it’s time to take photos with teammates.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right tennis hairstyle for girls is about more than just looking cute; it directly affects comfort, focus, and confidence on the court. Secure options like braids, buns, and well-placed ponytails reduce distractions by keeping hair off the face and neck during long matches and tough practices. Accessories such as visors, athletic headbands, and strong elastics help each hairstyle last through heat, sweat, and constant movement. It’s smart to test a few styles during practice days so each girl can figure out what feels best for her hair length and texture. With these tennis-ready hairstyles, girls can step onto the court knowing their hair will stay put, letting them focus on serves, volleys, and having fun.
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