Tennis court etiquette


The rules of tennis are set by the International Tennis Foundation and can be found here
http://www.itftennis.com/abouttheitf/rulesregs/rules.asp


Tennis etiquette is different from the rules of the game. It covers a broad range of actions and behaviours which are traditionally considered acceptable on and around the tennis court.

  • When playing please wear recognised sports clothing (not jeans etc) and most importantly "Tennis Shoes ". This is for two reasons, first, other shoes mark and damage the courts and second, non tennis shoes do not grip the courts as well and can cause accidents and avoidable injury if you were to fall or slip.
  • Please do not walk behind players whilst a game or a rally is in progress, this is to avoid distracting other members and most importantly to avoid any potential accidents on court.
  • If you are trying to cross a court please wait until you are invited to and it is safe to do so.
  • When you are crossing courts it is normal to do so at the rear of the court and not at the net.
  • When you decide to cross behind other courts do so as quickly as possible and don’t stop for a chat on the way.
  • If a stray ball comes onto your court don’t knock it back immediately, wait until the owners are ready and then hit it to the server’s end.
  • During play and particularly between games, keep the amount and volume of conversation down to a minimum necessary to play and enjoy your own games. Too much social chatter or debate can be disturbing to those on adjacent courts who came to play tennis.
  • Line calls can be a problem and the majority of experienced players use what the Americans call the ‘honour system’.
    • Only call the lines on your side of the net.
    • Call clearly and firmly what you see and what you honestly believe to be correct.
    • If you are not absolutely certain or didn’t see the ball clearly, the ball was IN and must be given in the opponents favour.
    • If occasionally you have serious doubts as to your opponents eye-sight, ask politely if they are certain as to the accuracy of their call. If they say that they are, get on with the next point.
    • If you feel your opponents regularly have difficulties making correct calls, start looking for different opponents!
    • If in social friendly matches there is some doubt over a line call, offer to play the point again rather than cause undue aggravation and time wasting.
  • Do not criticise your partner or opponent, be positive and offer encouragement instead.
  • Body Language - Tennis can be a frustrating game if you are
    not getting your serves in or not hitting your shots, but try to
    remain upbeat and happy. Your opponent and/or doubles
    partner doesn't want to be playing tennis with someone who is
    miserable so cheer up! You are more likely to play better tennis
    if you are calm, relaxed, focussed, and in a positive frame of
    mind.