How to Practice Tennis Etiquette

Much of the etiquette surrounding tennis is rooted in the honor system, and in the sport's high level of sportsmanship.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tennis Shirts
• Tennis Shoes
• Tennis Shorts
• Tennis Socks
• Tennis Lessons
• Tennis Bag
• Tennis Balls
• Tennis Racquets

1. Read and follow the specific rules posted at the tennis site.

2. Bring an extra racquet and a new can of balls, anticipating broken strings and lost balls.

3. Don't interrupt games on neighboring courts for any reason. Wait until a point is over to walk past a court or retrieve a ball.

4. Wait until your opponent is ready to receive before serving.

5. Call a "let" if a ball from another court interrupts play.

6. Make all line calls promptly and accurately; never challenge a call made by your opponent or partner.

Tips & Warnings

• Being courteous to neighboring players and opponents can only add to the enjoyment of your tennis match.

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on 11/22/2005 Don't talk to yourself about your inability to hit a shot. If you are having trouble with your backhand shot, just invite your opponent to hit more to your backhand.

on 11/22/2005 If you yell, or throw your racket down, or even pretend to throw your racket down, it lets your opponent know that they're getting under your skin, which makes them more confident.
Also, watch your body language. Never ever droop your head or hit the net if you're losing. It shouldn't be obvious to a person who is watching from two courts down that you're losing. Your body language should always stay the same, whether winning or losing. If you're winning and you act cocky, you'll most likely try to hit foolish shots that may cost you the match.

on 11/22/2005 Never lose your temper when playing, no matter how frustrated you are. Yelling, using profane language, and throwing your racket are all examples of disgraceful behavior that will embarrass you as well as those with whom you are playing. Besides, it NEVER helps your game to improve.

on 11/22/2005 When playing doubles, never hit the ball directly at the net player. If by accident it does happen, apologize immediatly. This "no body shot" rule is only for doubles, and only when a player is at the net. At any other time, hitting an opponent with the ball is a legitimate play.

on 11/22/2005 Try not to shout too loud because the noise might interrupt the other games going on.