A blend of tradition and sportsmanship that goes beyond rules, tennis etiquette is about respect and positive court behaviour. A sport rich in heritage and steeped in history, tennis has always commanded a certain respect between players since the beginning of the modern game in 12th century France.
© wavebreakmedia / Shutterstock.com
Whether you’re playing in a friendly doubles match at the local park, or a professional championship final at a major tournament, the game upholds unique unwritten rules of good behaviour and decorum. From polite greetings pre-match to the traditional post-match handshake, playing with grace will create a better atmosphere, endear you to spectators and make life easier for match officials.
Why does respect in tennis matter?
Most people will have had a bad experience, whether as a player or spectator. Imagine a closely contested match with intense rallies, when one player believes a line call against them is incorrect. In an instant, the pleasant ambience is ruined as they snap under pressure, shouting, gesturing at the official and, in the worst cases, smashing their racket on the carefully maintained court, damaging the playing surface in the process.
Moments like this can take all the enjoyment out of a game; etiquette sets the tone for respectful play and helps matches to flow smoothly by preventing conflicts. On court antics ruin the integrity of the game and spoil everyone’s enjoyment including other players, officials and spectators.
As well as enhancing the enjoyment of the game, exhibiting the true spirit of sportsmanship is crucial, encouraging positivity among younger and new players. The world’s top seeds in particular are role models to others, so practicing etiquette emphasises that small actions go a long way. This can include saying “good shot” and a polite brief clapping motion when your opponent plays a stunning shot. Although, deep down, you may not feel like congratulating them on winning a point against you, acknowledging spectacular play on their part makes you a better person.
Indoor vs outdoor courts
The different types of courts tennis is played on can impact the etiquette expected of players. For example, indoor tennis courts have their own unwritten rules, as it’s a whole different environment. This is particularly relevant if you’re playing amateur tennis at public courts inside a sports centre, as being enclosed means there’s less space for spectators. It’s polite not to walk around neighbouring courts while a game, rally or coaching are in progress, as it can cause distractions, or even accidents on court if a passer-by is hit by a ball or racket from walking too close to the perimeter.
During play and between games, spectators and players are expected to keep the volume of their conversation to a minimum, as it can disturb others playing nearby if you’re making a lot of unnecessary loud noise. It can even hold up play at times. Also, if a stray ball ends up on your court, don’t simply knock it back without checking first whether the players are aware you’re doing so. Wait until they see you with the ball and hit it back to the server.
Some etiquette rules are the same for both indoor and outdoor courts. When a game is in progress, wait for the point to end before walking behind the court and never interrupt game to retrieve your ball. Before you start playing, shake your opponent’s hand, as it’s polite to complete a brief introduction, especially if you’re playing someone for the first time. A little common courtesy can help calm nerves and create a good vibe before the match.
Winning and losing
Warm up respectfully, as it’s not the time to start trying to overpower your opponent, or blasting 90mph serves straight at them. The focus should be on mutually beneficial and cooperative rallies to loosen up and find your rhythm, so share the court space fairly.
Be a gracious winner and keep celebrations modest; no-one likes displays of arrogance. When you win, always go to shake your opponent’s hand immediately after the match, rather than running round the court waving to friends and family, and staging a big celebration.
Similarly, when you lose, don’t throw your racket down or storm off in a tantrum, without shaking hands, as being a sore loser is probably one of the worst etiquette faux pas you can make.
Be honest
If you’re playing an amateur game just for fun, without an umpire or line judges, call balls out honestly and clearly. It doesn’t look good to onlookers if you’ve called a ball out when it’s clearly in.
Be ready to serve promptly at the start of each point and never waste time to try and distract your opponent, whether you’re serving or receiving, as this is bad sportsmanship. Always respect the pace of play and avoid coaching during matches.
Keep verbal noise, such as shouting, grunts when hitting the ball, or talking to yourself in frustration, at a reasonable volume. This can be seen as unsporting if you’re so noisy it’s disturbing your opponent, or players on neighbouring courts.
After every match, thank your opponent, even if you lost, to leave a good impression, and always pick up stray balls and your belongings to leave the court ready for the next lot of players.