Baby Steps

"Baby Steps" (ベイビーステップ), also known as "Tennis Ace", is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Hikaru Katsuki. It was serialized in Kodansha's Weekly Shōnen Magazine from October 2007 to November 2017, and has been compiled into 47 tankōbon volumes. The story revolves around Eiichirou Maruo, a diligent and methodical honor student who, seeking more exercise, joins his school's tennis club. He gradually becomes captivated by the sport and develops a unique playing style through his strategic approach and dedication. The manga won the 38th Kodansha Manga Award in the shōnen category in 2014. An anime adaptation, produced by Pierrot and broadcast on NHK Educational TV, also gained popularity. The first season aired from April to September 2014, and the second season from April to September 2015. The anime follows Eiichirou's journey from his initial encounters with tennis to his decision to go professional and his training in America. "Baby Steps" is celebrated for its detailed portrayal of tennis and its engaging depiction of the protagonist's growth.