Groin pain is a relatively common complaint amongst tennis players and recently the hip joint, and more specifically labral tears, have been in the spotlight (3). Previously most groin pain has been attributed to pathology in the adductor tendons, either acute or chronic or 'occult' inguinal hernia (1). Whilst it is important to systematically check for all potential causes of groin pain (2). it is important to include osteitis pubis in that list. Whilst probably more prevalent in sports which involve kicking, e.g. soccer, where repetitive rotational stresses are placed on the symphysis pubis, tennis nevertheless does place significant stress through this and surrounding structures. In assessing a player with groin pain, it is important not to forget osteitis pubis in the list of differential diagnoses. Early diagnosis allows the institution of an appropriate programme and hopefully minimise time away from competition.
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