Tennis Etiquette: Court Rules Every Club Player Should Know

Why Tennis Etiquette Matters

Tennis is one of the few sports where players officiate their own matches at the recreational and club level. Without umpires on every court, the game relies on a shared code of conduct that every player is expected to follow. Good etiquette keeps matches fair, prevents conflicts, and ensures that everyone enjoys their time on court.

For club players, etiquette is about more than sportsmanship. It reflects the culture of your club and influences whether new members feel welcome. A club where players follow proper court conduct attracts and retains members, while a club with frequent disputes over calls or behavior quickly develops a negative reputation.

The Line Calling Code of Honor

In self-officiated tennis, each player is responsible for making calls on their own side of the net. The fundamental principle is simple: if you are not sure whether a ball was out, it was in. Any ball that you cannot clearly see landing beyond the line should be played as good.

Call out balls promptly and loudly so your opponent can hear the call. A late call, one made after you have seen where your next shot landed, undermines trust and creates unnecessary tension. If you realize you made an incorrect call, correct it immediately and award the point to your opponent.

• Always give your opponent the benefit of the doubt on close calls
• Say "out" or "fault" clearly and raise your hand or finger to signal the call
• Never question an opponent's call unless asked for your opinion
• If a ball hits the line, it is in. Lines are considered part of the playing court
• On serves, call "let" immediately when the ball clips the net cord and lands in the service box

Warm-Up Protocol

The warm-up is not practice time. It is a courtesy period for both players to get loose before the match begins. A standard warm-up lasts five minutes and follows a predictable sequence: groundstrokes from the baseline, volleys at the net, overhead smashes, and serves.

During the warm-up, hit the ball directly to your opponent rather than trying to wrong-foot them or blast winners. The goal is mutual preparation. When your opponent is practicing overheads, feed them high lobs rather than low drives. When warming up serves, hit four to six serves and then let your opponent do the same.

On-Court Behavior During Play

How you conduct yourself between points and during changeovers speaks volumes about your character as a competitor. Tennis tradition expects players to maintain composure regardless of the score or the quality of their play.

Avoid excessive ball bouncing before serves. The standard expectation is no more than three or four bounces. Lengthy service routines slow the pace of play and frustrate opponents who are waiting and ready. Between points, you have 25 seconds to begin the next point, and during changeovers, you have 90 seconds to sit down, towel off, and hydrate.

Racket abuse, audible profanity, and ball striking in anger are violations of the USTA Code of Conduct. Even in casual club matches, these behaviors make opponents uncomfortable and set a poor example for junior players who may be watching from adjacent courts. Coaching from spectators or partners on the sideline is prohibited during sanctioned play and discouraged during club matches.

1. 1Keep ball bouncing to three or four bounces before serving
2. 2Respect the 25-second rule between points
3. 3Never throw, kick, or slam your racket
4. 4Avoid audible commentary about your own or your opponent's play
5. 5Do not accept coaching from the sidelines during competitive matches

Respecting Adjacent Courts

At most clubs, courts sit close together, and activity on one court can easily disrupt play on another. The most important rule is straightforward: never walk behind a court while a point is in progress. Wait at the back fence or gate until the point finishes, then cross quickly and quietly.

If a ball from your court rolls onto an adjacent court, do not run onto that court to retrieve it. Wait until their point ends, then politely call "ball, please" or "thank you" when they send it back. Similarly, if a stray ball rolls onto your court during a point, stop play immediately and replay the point rather than continuing with a potential hazard on the playing surface.

Dress Code and Phone Policy

Many private clubs enforce a dress code that requires collared shirts, tennis-specific shorts or skirts, and non-marking court shoes. Public facilities and casual clubs are generally more relaxed, but athletic attire and proper footwear remain baseline expectations. Running shoes with aggressive tread patterns damage hard courts and are not permitted at most facilities.

Phones should be silenced and kept in your bag during play. Taking calls or checking messages between points disrupts the flow of the match and signals disrespect to your opponent. If you must be reachable for an emergency, let your opponent know before the match and step off the court briefly if the call comes. Using your phone to record matches is acceptable at most clubs as long as the device is positioned off-court and does not interfere with play.

Post-Match Courtesy

Regardless of the result, approach the net at the end of the match to shake hands with your opponent. This is a non-negotiable tradition in tennis. Offer a firm handshake, make eye contact, and say something genuine. A simple "good match" or "well played" is perfectly appropriate.

If you lost, avoid making excuses or blaming conditions. If you won, be gracious and acknowledge your opponent's strong play. Collect all your balls, water bottles, and towels before leaving the court. If your club uses a court reservation system, finish on time so the next group can begin their session without delay.