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How Can You Show Sportsmanship and Respect on the Tennis Court?

On-Court Etiquette

  1. Punctuality
    • Arrive on Time: Respect your opponent’s time by arriving at the court early enough to warm up and start the match as scheduled.
  2. Warm-Up Conduct
    • Be Considerate: Use the warm-up period to prepare yourself and your opponent, avoiding aggressive shots and ensuring both players get a chance to hit.
  3. Service Etiquette
    • Wait for Readiness: Ensure your opponent is ready before serving. Make eye contact or verbally confirm if necessary.
    • Call the Score: Announce the score loudly and clearly before each serve to avoid confusion.
  4. Line Calls
    • Be Honest: Make fair and accurate line calls. If in doubt, give the benefit of the doubt to your opponent.
    • Respect Opponent’s Calls: Accept your opponent’s calls without argument. If disagreements arise, offer to replay the point.
  5. Conduct During Play
    • Maintain Silence: Stay quiet during points to avoid distracting your opponent.
    • Respect Equipment: Treat your racket and balls with care. Avoid smashing rackets or hitting balls in frustration.
  6. Changeovers and Breaks
    • Time Limits: Adhere to the time limits for changeovers (90 seconds) and set breaks (2 minutes).
    • Stay Focused: Use changeovers to rest and rehydrate, not to engage in prolonged conversations or distractions.
  7. Post-Match Etiquette
    • Shake Hands: Win or lose, approach the net to shake hands with your opponent and thank them for the match.
    • Acknowledge the Crowd: If playing in front of an audience, acknowledge their support with a simple wave or nod.

Off-Court Etiquette

  1. Respect for Facilities
    • Leave it Clean: Ensure the court is free of litter and return any borrowed equipment.
    • Follow Rules: Adhere to the facility’s rules and guidelines, such as court reservations and usage policies.
  2. Sportsmanship
    • Be Gracious: Whether you win or lose, exhibit grace and humility. Compliment your opponent on good shots and maintain a positive demeanor.
    • Support Fair Play: Encourage fair play among peers and address any unsportsmanlike behavior calmly and respectfully.
  3. Spectator Conduct
    • Be Respectful: If watching a match, remain quiet during points and applaud good play from both sides.
    • Avoid Distractions: Keep conversations, movements, and electronic device usage to a minimum to avoid disturbing players.