Tennis Courtesy & Etiquette
Good tennis starts with good etiquette! From warm-ups to line calls, a little courtesy keeps the game fun and fair for everyone.
Warm-Ups
A few minutes of gentle rallying is a courtesy, though not required. Keep it cooperative; no blasting winners or making your opponent chase balls.
Serving & Scoring
Call the score loudly and clearly before each serve.
Make sure all stray balls are cleared before serving. If one rolls behind the baseline, call out “Ball!”
If the ball touches the line, it’s in. When in doubt, give the point to your opponent.
Ball Etiquette
Return balls underhand and directly to the nearest player. Never toss them across the net.
During breaks, send stray balls from the alley straight to the back fence to keep play moving.
Court Respect (Singles & Doubles)
Stay clear of the baseline when waiting, so you’re not in the path of play.
In doubles, use hand signals for poaches and lobs. Better communication prevents collisions.
After a match, don’t head straight off. Offer a quick handshake or racquet tap instead.
Noise & Distraction
Silence phones and mute smartwatch alerts. Distractions mid-serve are disruptive.
Keep conversations on nearby courts low. Courts are public, but focus matters.
Line & Net Calls
Be honest with calls and own your mistakes. A simple “my bad” shows sportsmanship.
If your shot clips the net and goes over, call “Net”. It’s courtesy, not apology.
Court Care
Pack a small trash bag in your racquet bag for wrappers, bottles, or broken strings. Leave the court as you found it.
Sweep or kick away loose debris and ball scuffs to prevent slips or injuries.
Finishing the Match
End with a sincere “Good match,” plus a handshake or racquet tap; short, respectful, and sportsmanlike.
