Playing tennis can be an enjoyable experience for everyone involved if you follow the proper tennis etiquette on the court. Of course, it’s no secret that all sports have their own set of rules, but when it comes to tennis, there are some additional do’s and don’ts that must be followed in order to make sure every player is having a good time. From courtesy gestures to know-how during play, this article will cover some essential tips for any tennis enthusiast looking for ways to improve their game and ensure respect among fellow players.
Before the Match
- Arrive on time: Arriving on time is one of the first lessons taught. Much like any other facet of life, being on time shows respect for others. Punctuality is key with any tennis match, official or not.
- Introduce yourself to your opponent: Greeting all parties involved with a firm handshake and a smile shows good sportsmanship. Just because a person is your opponent doesn’t mean they don’t deserve your respect.
- Warm up properly: It is important to prepare for every match by performing a proper warm-up. In the official play, five minutes is presented to the players to stretch and loosen up their muscles to prepare for a strenuous game.
- Share court space and equipment. Unless you have your own tennis court to play on, be respectful when sharing the courts and equipment with others. Do not disrupt games in play by walking around or alongside a court. Instead, wait until a point has been made.
During the Match
- Follow the rules of the game: New players need to learn the playing rules of the game before stepping onto a court. Sports games have specific rules, policies, and guidelines to follow to keep players and spectators safe and ensure fair gameplay.
- Call your own lines: Unless you are playing a competitive sport with professional officials, players are required to call their own lines.
- Respect your opponent’s calls: Just as you expect your opponent to respect your line calls, you need to respect their calls. A ball near the line can appear out when it is in by a player standing on the other side of the court.
- Avoid distractions: One constant rule is to avoid distractions on and off the court. During play, there should be no talking, loud noises, or intentional jerk movements as it all can distract your opponent.
- Stay focused and positive: Avoiding distractions takes patience, focus, and dedication to the game at hand. Staying focused and positive will help improve your game while helping you learn the passion behind tennis.
- Take breaks appropriately: Depending on the type of tennis match, the play can last between 20 minutes to several hours as various sets can be played. It is important that players take frequent breaks as well as hydrate properly.
- Avoid gamesmanship and cheating: Cheating and gamesmanship can include making negative comments and taunting your opponent, bending the rules of the game, and showing disrespect for other players and the game itself.
- Demonstrate good sportsmanship: Good sportsmanship begins with showing respect to your opponent officials. Just as players shook hands before the match, shaking hands and commenting “good game” (regardless of the outcome) is a sign of good sportsmanship.
After the Match
- Clean up the court: Treat the court as your own property by cleaning up after every match. Remove any garbage, clean up spills, and don’t forget to pick up any loose balls or clothing when leaving.
- Thank your opponent for the match: Once a match has ended, thank your opponent for the game while shaking hands. A bit of polite conversation with them goes a long way in any match.
- Reflect on your performance and identify areas for improvement: Replay the game in your head and with your coach or teammate immediately afterward to identify areas of play that may need improvement.
- Plan for the next match or practice: You should plan for your next game with your opponent before you even leave the court.
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