Après Tennis

Après Tennis is a refreshing, citrusy non-alcoholic drink, designed to accompany a break after exercise or at the end of a busy day. The name evokes the pleasure of enjoying something thirst-quenching after a game of tennis, but the drink can be served on many other occasions: on a summer afternoon, at brunch, after a walk, or as a light alternative to packaged soft drinks.

Its flavor is born from the combination of the liveliness of lemon, the sweetness of orange, and the effervescence of soda. The result is a simple yet balanced sip, in which the citrus component remains prominent. To obtain a truly enjoyable drink, it's important to use fresh juices, correctly measure the acidity, and add the fizzy drink only at serving time.

A citrusy and thirst-quenching drink

Orange is the mellowest part of Après Tennis. Its juice provides a natural sweetness and a distinctive aroma, toning down the more assertive acidity of the lemon. Lemon adds sparkle and a refreshing sensation, but it must be used sparingly.

The ideal ratio depends on the flavor of the fruit. Ripe oranges can be very sweet, while those picked early in the season are often tart. Lemons also don't always have the same intensity. Before completing the drink, it's therefore advisable to taste the base and gradually adjust it.

If the flavor is too acidic, you can slightly increase the orange portion or use a moderate amount of sweetener. If, on the other hand, the drink seems too sweet, a few drops of lemon can add vivacity without overpowering the other flavors.

How to prepare for Après Tennis

For a smooth result, pour the orange and lemon juice into a shaker with a few ice cubes. Shake for a few seconds to chill the mixture without diluting it excessively.

The citrus base is then strained into a glass filled with clean ice. The soda water should be added at the end and stirred gently. It should not be placed in a shaker, as shaking would quickly disperse the carbon dioxide and could cause a spill when opening.

The drink can also be prepared directly in the glass. In this case, it's best to use well-chilled juices, pour them over ice, and stir before adding the soda. This method is convenient when you want to make a single drink or don't have a shaker.

The role of soda

Soda water lightens the citrus flavor and makes the drink more lively. Its essentially neutral flavor doesn't noticeably alter the sweetness of the drink. The amount can be adjusted based on the desired result: a small dose keeps the drink intense, while a larger amount makes it lighter and more refreshing.

Alternatively, you can use sparkling mineral water, preferably very cold. It's best to avoid flavored or excessively salty products, as they could alter the delicate citrus flavor.

The effervescence is best preserved when the bottle is opened shortly before use. The glass should also be cold, especially on hot days, to limit the ice from melting.

The importance of fresh fruit

Freshly squeezed juice makes for a more fragrant and natural Après Tennis. Before cutting citrus fruits, it's a good idea to wash them thoroughly, especially if you want to use the zest as a garnish.

Orange juice can be strained to remove excess pulp. A small amount won't affect the drink, but too much pulp can make the consistency less uniform and reduce the pleasantness of the fizz. Lemon juice should also be strained to remove seeds and any residue.

It's best to squeeze citrus fruits shortly before preparing them. Over time, the juice loses some of its aroma and may develop a less fresh flavor. When planning ahead, it can be stored in the refrigerator for a short time in a tightly closed container.

A drink after physical activity

Après Tennis can be pleasant after a workout thanks to its refreshing freshness and fluid content, but it shouldn't be considered a complete sports drink. After intense or prolonged activity, especially in hot temperatures, it may be necessary to replenish adequate amounts of water and electrolytes.

For a break after moderate exercise, the drink can be served with a glass of water. It's also best to avoid excessive sugar or syrups, especially when the oranges are already sweet. This way, the flavor remains light and the fruit's natural aroma isn't overpowered.

Service and presentation

A tall glass is particularly suitable because it allows you to add ice and soda while maintaining a clean presentation. The cubes should be large and compact: crushed ice chills quickly, but melts just as quickly and can make the drink watery.

Garnish with an orange slice, a thin twist of lemon peel, or a small citrus wedge. A few mint leaves add a fresh aroma, but don't crush them too much, as they could release bitter notes.

Après Tennis should be served immediately. If it sits in the glass for too long, the ice will dilute the juices and the soda will gradually lose its effervescence.

Variants and advance preparation

For a more aromatic version, you can add a piece of fresh ginger while blending, then carefully strain. Lime can also replace part of the lemon, offering a more intense acidity and a different fragrant note. Mandarin, on the other hand, makes the drink sweeter and more delicate.

If you're making multiple glasses, the juices can be mixed ahead of time and kept chilled in a sealed carafe. Soda and ice should only be added directly to the glasses at the moment of serving, to preserve freshness and effervescence.

A simple and lively break

The secret of Après Tennis is the balance between the sweetness of orange, the acidity of lemon, and the lightness of soda. Freshly squeezed juices, compact ice, and a freshly prepared drink enhance its character. Served very cold, it's a simple and pleasant non-alcoholic drink, perfect not only after a workout, but for any occasion when you want a citrusy and refreshing break.