Tennis originated in 12th century France as a handball game called paume that evolved to use rackets. Major Walter Wingfield later invented the modern outdoor game of tennis in 1873. Tennis is played between two singles players or two doubles teams using rackets and a ball on a large outdoor or indoor court, with the aim of scoring points by hitting the ball past the opponent without it being returned. The basic equipment needed is a racket and ball, with tennis shoes recommended, and there are eight fundamental shot techniques used in play.