Top Spin , the Xbox's first tennis game, lets players compete in online matches through Xbox Live, joining the XSN Sports Network. In this network, two players can face each other in one-on-one matches, while up to four players can play together in doubles games. The game features a career mode that takes the player on a world tour, starting with creating a player and improving their technical skills. As they progress, they can compete in various tournaments, from minor pros to professional events. Winning these games earns money and improves the player's ranking, aiming to reach number one.
The game has four key statistics that can be improved: serve, backhand, forehand, and volley. Enhancing these skills makes serves better, backhands more accurate, and volleys longer-lasting. There are also special skills to unlock, such as risk and ace, which increase the chances of hitting a successful risk shot or acing an opponent on serve.
In Exhibition mode, players can choose from created characters or real-life pros like Pete Sampras or Anna Kournikova.