Rules Of Tennis
THE COURT
The Court shall be a rectangle 78 feet (23.77 m.) long and 27 feet (8. 23 m.) wide. It shall be divided across the middle by a net suspended from a cord or metal cable of a maximum diameter of one-third of an inch (0.8 cm.), the ends of which shall be attached to, or pass over, the tops of the two posts, which shall be not more than 6 inches (15 cm.) square or 6 inches (15 cm.) in diameter. These posts shall not be higher than 1 inch (2.5 cm.) above the top of the net cord. The centers of the post shall be 3 feet (.914 m.) outside the Court on each side and the height of the posts shall be such that the top of the cord or metal cable shall be 3 feet 6 inches (1.07 m.) above the ground.
When a combined doubles (see Rule 34) and singles court with a doubles net is used for singles, the net must be supported to a height of 3 feet 6 inches (1.07 m.) by means of two posts, called "singles sticks", which shall be not more than 3 inches (7.5 cm.) square or 3 inches (7.5 cm.) in diameter. The centers of the singles sticks shall be 3 feet (.914 m.) outside the singles Court on each side. The net shall be extended fully so that it fills completely the space between the two posts and shall be of sufficiently small mesh to prevent the ball passing through. The height of the net shall be 3 feet (.914 m.) at the center, where it shall be held down taut by a strap not more than 2 inches (5 cm.) wide and completely white in colour. These shall be a band covering the cord or metal cable and the top of the net of not less than 2 inches (5 cm.) nor more than 2 ½ inches (6. 35 cm.) in depth on each side and completely white in colour. There shall be not advertisement on the net, strap band or singles sticks.
The lines bounding the ends and sides of the Court shall respectively be called the base lines and the sidelines. On each side of the net, at a distance of 21 feet (6.40 m.) from it and parallel with it, shall be drawn the service lines. The space on each side of the net between the service-line and the side-line shall be divided into two equal parts called the service-courts by the center service-line, which must be 2 inches (5 cm.) in width, drawn half-way between, and parallel with the side-line. Each base-line shall be bisected by an imaginary continuation of the center service-line to a line 4 inches (10 cm.) in length and 2 inches (5 cm.) in width called "the center mark" drawn inside the Court, at right angles to and in contact with such base-lines. All other lines shall be not less than 1 inch (2.5 cm.) nor more than 2 inches (5 cm.) in width, except the base-line which may be not more than 4 inches (10 cm.) in width, and all measurements shall be made to the outside of the lines. All lines shall be of uniform colour. If advertising or any other material is placed at the back of the Court, it may not contain white, or yellow. A light colour may only be used if this does not interfere with the vision of the players.
If advertisement is placed on the chairs of the linemen sitting at the back of the court, they may not contain white or yellow. A light colour may only be used if this does not interfere with the vision of the players.
Note 1 :
In Davis Cup, Fed Cup and the Official Championships of the International Tennis Federation, specific requirements with regard to the space behind the baseline and at the sides are included in the respective Regulations for these events.
Note 2 :
At Club or recreational level, the space behind each baseline should be not less than 18 feet (5.5 m.) and at the sides not less than 10 feet (3.05 m.).
PERMANENT FIXTURES:
The permanent fixtures of the court shall include not only the net, posts, singles sticks, cord or metal cable, strap and band, but also, where there are any such, the back and side stops, the stands, fixed movable seats and chairs round the Court, and their occupants, all other fixtures around and above the court, and the Umpire, Net-cord Judge, Foot fault Judge, Linesmen and Ball Boys when in their respective places.
Note:
For the purpose of this Rule, the world "Umpire" comprehends the Umpire, the persons entitled to a seat on the Court, and all those persons designed to assist the Umpire in the conduct of a match.
THE BALL:
The ball shall have a uniform outer surface consisting of a fabric cover and shall be white or yellow in colour. If there are any seams they shall be stitches.
The ball shall conform to the requirements specified in Appendix I (Regulations for making tests specified in Rule 3) Section iv for size and be more than two Ounces (56.7 grams) and less than two and one-sixteenth ounces (58.5 grams) in weight.
The ball shall have a bound of more than 53 inches (134.62 cm.) and less than 58 inches (147.32 cm.) when dropped 100 inches (254.00 cm.) upon a concrete base.
The ball shall have a forward deformation of more than .220 of an inch (.559 cm.) and less than .290 of an inch (.737 cm.) and return deformation of more than .315 of an inch (.800 cm.) and less than .425 of an inch (1.080 cm.) at 18 lb. (8.165 kg.) load. The two deformation figures shall be the averages of three individual readings along three axes of the ball and no two individual reading shall differ by more than .030 of an inch (.076 cm.) in each case.
For play above 4,000 feet (1219 m.) in altitude above sea level, two additional types of ball may be used. The first type is identical to those described above except that the bound shall be more than 48 inches (121.92 cm.) and less than 53 inches (134.62 cm.) and shall have an internal pressure that is greater than the external pressure. This type of tennis ball is commonly known as a pressurized ball. The second type is identical to those described above except that they shall have a bound of more than 53 inches (134.62 cm.) and less than 58 inches (147.32 cm.) and shall have an internal pressure that is approximately equal to the external pressure and have been acclimatized for 60 days or more at the altitude of the specific tournament. This type of tennis ball is commonly known as a zero-pressure or non-pressurized ball.
All tests for bound, size and deformation shall be made in accordance with the regulations in Appendix I.
The International Tennis Federation shall rule on the question of whether any ball or prototype complies with the above specifications or is otherwise approved, for play, such ruling may be taken on its own initiative, or upon application by any party with a bona fide interest therein, including any player, equipment manufacturer or National Association or members thereof. Such rulings and applications shall be made in accordance with the applicable Review and Hearing Procedures of the International Tennis Federation (see Appendix II).
Note:
Any ball to be used in a tournament which is played under the Rules of Tennis, must be named on the official ITF list of approved balls issued by the International Tennis Federation.
THE RACKET
Rackets failing to comply with the following specifications are not approved for play under the Rules of Tennis:
A. The hitting surface of the racket shall be flat and consist of a pattern of crossed strings connected to a frame and alternately interlaced or bonded where they cross; and the stringing pattern shall be generally uniform, and in particular not less dense in the center than in any other area. The racket shall be designed and strung such that the playing characteristics are identical on both faces.
The strings shall be free of attached objects and protrusions other than those utilized solely and specifically to limit or prevent wear and tear or vibration, and which are responsible in size and placement for such purpose.
B. For professional play, the frame of the racket shall not exceed 29 inches (73.66 cm.) in overall length, including the handle, as from 1 st January 1997. For non-professional play, the frame of the racket shall not exceed 29 inches (73.66 cm.) in overall length, including the handle, as from 1st January 2000. Until 1st January 2000, the maximum length of a racket for non-professional play shall be 32 inches (81.28 cm.). The frame of the racket shall not exceed 12 ½ inches (31.75 cm.), in overall width. The strung surface shall not exceed 15 ½ inches (39.37 cm.) in overall length, and 11 ½ inches (29.21 cm.) in overall width.
C. The frame, including the handle, shall be free of attached objects and devices other than those utilized solely and specifically to limit or prevent wear and tear or vibration, or to distribute weight, any objects and devices must be reasonable in size and placement for such purposes.
D. The frame, including the handle, and the strings, shall be free of any device which makes it possible to change materially the shape of the racket, or to change the weight distribution in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the racket which would alter the swing moment of inertia, or to deliberately change any physical property which may affect the performance of the racket during the playing of a point.
The International Tennis Federation shall rule on the question of whether any racket or prototype complies with the above specifications or is otherwise approved, or not approved, for play. Such ruling may be undertaken on its own initiative, or upon application by any party with a bona fide interest therein, including any player, equipment manufacturer or National Association or members thereof. Such rulings and applications shall be made in accordance with the applicable Review and Hearing Procedures of the International Tennis Federation (see Appendix II).
Case 1.Can there be more than one set of strings on the hitting surface of racket?
Case 2.Is the stringing pattern of a racket considered to be generally uniform and flat if the strings are on more than one plane?
Decision : No.
Case 3.Can vibration-dampening device be placed on the string of a racket and if so, where can they be placed?
Decision : Yes; but such device may be placed only outside the pattern of the crossed strings.
Case 4.In the course of play, a player accidentally breaks the strings of his racket. Can he continue to play with the racket in this condition?
Decision : Yes.
SERVER AND RECEIVER:
The players shall stand on opposite sides of the net; the player who first delivers the ball shall be called the Server, and the other the Receiver.
Case 1. Does a player, attempting a stroke, lose the point if he crosses an imaginary line in the extension of the net,
A. Before striking the ball,
B. After striking the ball?
Decision : He does not lose the point in either case by crossing the imaginary line and provided he does not enter the lines bounding his opponent’s Court (Rule 20(e)). In regard to hindrance, his opponent may ask for the decision of the Umpire under Rules 21 and 25.
Case 2. The Server claims that the Receiver must stand within the lines bounding his Court. Is this necessary?
Decision : No. The Receiver may stand wherever he pleases on his own side of the net.
CHOICE OF ENDS & SERVICE
The choice of ends and the right to be Server or Receiver in the first game shall be decided by toss. The player winning the toss may choose or require his opponent to choose: -
a. The right to be Server or Receiver, in which case the other player shall choose the end; or
b. The end, in which case the other players shall choose the right to be Server or Receiver.
Case 1. Do players have the right to new choices if the match is postponed or suspended before it has started?
Decision : Yes. The toss stands, but new choice may be made with respect to service and end.
THE SERVICE:
The service shall be delivered in the following manner. Immediately before commencing to serve, the Server shall stand with both feet at rest behind (i.e. further from the net than) the base line, and within the imaginary continuations of the center-mark and side-line. The Server shall then project the ball by hand into the air in any direction and before it hits the ground strike it with his racket, and the delivery shall be deemed to have been completed at the moment of the impact of the racket and the ball. A player with the use of only one arm may utilize his racket for the projection.
Case 1. May the Server in a singles game take his stand behind the portion of the base line between the sideline of the Singles Court and the Doubles Court?
Decision : No.
Case 2. If a player, when serving, throws up two or more balls instead of one, does he lose that service?
Decision : No. A let should be called, but if the Umpire regards the action as deliberate he may take action under Rule 21.
FOOT FAULT:
The Server shall throughout the delivery of the Service:
a. Not change his position by walking or running. The Server shall not by slight movements of the feet which do not materially affect the location originally taken up by him, be deemed "to change his position by walking or running".
b. Not touch with either foot, any area other than that behind the base line within the imaginary extension of the center-mark and sidelines.
9. DELIVERY OF SERVICE
A In delivering the service, the Server shall stand alternately behind the right and left halves of the Court beginning from the right in every game. If service from a wrong half of the Court occurs and is undetected, all play resulting from such wrong service or services shall stand, but the inaccuracy of station shall be corrected immediately it is discovered.
B The ball served shall pass over the net and hit the ground within the Service Court, which is diagonally opposite, or upon any line bounding such Court, before the Receiver returns it.
SERVICE FAULT:
The Service is a fault:
A If the Server commits any breach of Rules 7, 8 or 9 (b);
B If he misses the ball in attempting to strike it;
C If the ball served touches a permanent fixtures (other than the net, strap or band) before it hits the ground.
Case 1. After throwing a ball up preparatory to serving, the Server decides not to strike at it and catches it instead. Is it a fault?
Decision : No.
Case 2. In serving a singles game played on a Doubles Court with doubles posts and singles sticks, the ball hits a singles stick and then hits the ground within the lines of the correct Service Court. Is this a fault or a let?
Decision : In Serving it is a fault, because the singles stick, the doubles post, and that portion of the net or band between them are permanent fixtures. (Rules 2 and 10, and note to Rule 24.)
SECOND SERVICE:
After a fault (if it is the first fault) the Server shall serve again from behind the same half of the Court from which he served that fault, unless the service was from the wrong half, when, in accordance with Rule 9, the Server shall be entitled to one service only from behind the other half.
Case 1. A player serves from a wrong Court. He loses the point and then claims it was fault because of his wrong station.
Decision : The point stands as played and the next service should be from the correct station according to the score.
Case 2. The point score being 15 all, Server, by mistake, serves from the left-hand Court. He wins the point. He then serves again from the right-hand Court, delivering a fault. This mistake in station is then discovered. Is he entitled to the previous point? From which Court should he next serve?
Decision : The previous point stands. The next service should be from the left-hand Court, the score being 30/15, and the Server having served one fault.
WHEN TO SERVE:
The Server shall not serve until the Receiver is ready. If the latter attempts to return the service, he shall be deemed ready. If, however, the Receiver signifies that he is not ready, he may not claim a fault because the ball does not hit the ground within the limits fixed for the service.
THE LET :
In all cases where a let has to be called under the rules, or to provide for an interruption to play, it shall have the following interpretations: -
a. When called solely in respective of a service that one service only shall be replayed.
b. When called under any other circumstance, the point shall be replayed.
Case 1. A service is interrupted by some cause outside those defined in Rule 14. Should the service only be replayed?
Decision : No. The whole point must be replayed.
Case 2. If a ball in play becomes broken, should a let be called?
Decision : Yes.
THE "LET" IN SERVICE:
The Service is a let :-
a. If the ball served touches the net, strap or band, and is otherwise good, or, after touching the net, strap or band, touches the Receivers or anything which he wears or carries before hitting the ground.
b. If a service or a fault is delivered when the Receiver is not ready (see Rule 12).
In case of a let, that particular service not count, and the Server shall serve again, but a service let does not annul a previous fault.
ORDER OF SERVICE:
At the end of the first game the Receiver shall become Server, and the Server Receiver; and so on alternately in all the subsequent games of a match. If a player serves out of turn, the player who ought to have served shall serve as soon as the mistake is discovered, but all points scored before such discovery shall stand. A fault served before such discovery shall not stand. If a game shall have been completed before such discovery, the order of service shall remain as altered.
WHEN PLAYERS CHANGES ENDS:
The players shall change ends at the end of the first, third and every subsequent alternate game of each set, and at the end of each set unless the total number of games in such set is even, in which case the changes is not made until the end of the first game of the next set.
However there will be no rest allowed after the first game of the set but there will be a change of sides. At the end of each set the players are entitled to a two-minute break.
If a mistake is made and the correct sequence is not followed the players must take up their correct station as soon as the discovery is made and follow their original sequence.
THE BALL IN PLAY:
A ball is in play from the moment at which it is delivered in service. Unless a fault or a let is called it remains in play until the point is decided.
Case 1. A player fails to make a good return. No call is made and the ball remains in play. May his opponent later claim the point after the rally has ended?
Decision : No. The point may not be claimed if the players continue to play after the error has been made, provided the opponent was not hindered.
THE SERVER WINS POINT:
The Server wins the point: -
a. If the ball served, not being a let under Rule 14, touches the Receivers or anything which he wears or carries, before it hits the ground;
b. If the Receiver otherwise loses the point as provided by Rule 20.
RECEIVER WINS POINT :
The Receiver wins the Point: -
a. If the Server serves two consecutive faults;
b. If the Server otherwise loses the points as provided by Rule 20.
PLAYER LOSES POINT :
A player loses the point if: -
a. He fails before the ball in play has hit the ground twice consecutively, to return it directly over the net (except as provided in Rule 24 (a) or (c); or
b. He returns the ball in play so that it hits the ground, a permanent fixtures, or other object, outside any of the lines which bound his opponent’s Court; or
c. He volleys the ball and fails to make a good return even when standing outside the Court; or
d. In playing the ball he deliberately carries or catches it on his racket or deliberately touches it with his racket more than once; or
e. He or his racket (in his hand or otherwise) or anything which he wears or carries touches the net, posts, singles sticks, cord or metal cable, strap or band, or the ground within his opponent’s Court at any time while the ball is play; or
f. He volleys the ball before it has passed the net; or
g. The ball in play touches him or anything that he wears or carries, except his racket in his hand or hands; or
h. He throws his racket at and hits the ball; or
i. He deliberately and materially changes the shape of his racket during the playing of the point.
Case 1. In serving, the racket flies from the Server’s hand and
Touches the net before the ball has touched the ground. Is this a fault, or does the player lose the point?
Decision : The Server loses the point because his racket touches the net whilst the ball is in play (Rule 20 (e)).
Case 2. In serving, the racket flies from the Server’s hand and touches the net after the ball has touches the ground outside the proper court. Is this a fault, or does the player lose the point?
Decision : This is a fault because the ball was out of play when the racket touched the net.
Case 3. A and B are playing against C and D, A is serving to D, C touches the net before the ball touches the ground. A fault is then called because the service falls outside the Service Court. Do C and D lose the point?
Decision : The call "fault" is an erroneous one. C and D had already lost the point before "fault" could be called, because C touched the net whilst the ball was in play (Rule 20 (e)).
Case 4. May a player jump over the net into his opponent’s Court while the ball is in play and not suffer penalty?
Decision : No. He loses the Point (Rule 20 (e)).
Case 5. A cuts the ball just over the net, and it returns to A’s side. B, unable to reach the ball, throws his racket and hits the ball. Both racket and ball fall over the net on A’s court. A returns the ball outside of B’s court. Does B win or lose the point?
Decision : B loses the point (Rule 20 (e) and (h)).
Case 6. A player standing outside the service Court is struck by a service ball before it has touched the ground. Does he win or lose the point?
Decision : The player struck loses the point (Rule 20 (g)), except as provided under 14 (a).
Case 7. A player standing outside the Court volleys the ball or catches it in his hand and claims the point because the ball was certainly going out of court.
Decision : In no circumstances can he claim the point:-
I. If he catches the ball he loses the point under Rule 20 (g).
II. If he volleys it and makes a bad return he loss the point under Rule 20 (c).
III. If he volleys it and makes a good return, the rally continues.
PLAYER HINDERS OPPONENT :
If a player commits any act which hinders his opponent in making a stroke, then, if this is deliberate, he shall lose the point or if involuntary, the point shall be replayed.
Case 1. Is a player liable to a penalty if in making a stroke he touches his opponent.
Decision : No. Unless the Umpire deems it necessary to take action under Rule 21.
Case 2. When a ball bounds back over the net, the player concerned may reach over the net in order to play the ball. What is the ruling if the player is hindered from doing this by his opponent?
Decision : In accordance with Rule 21, the Umpire may either award the point to the player hindered, or order the point to be replayed (see also Rule 25).
Case 3. Does an involuntary double hit constitute an act which hinders an opponent within Rule 21?
Decision : No.
BALL FALLS ON LINE :
A ball falling on a line is regarded as falling in the Court bounded by that line.
BALL TOUCHES PERMANENT FIXTURES :
If the ball in play touches a permanent fixture (other than the net, posts, singles sticks, cord or metal cable, strap or band) after it has hit the ground, the player who struck it wins the point; if before the ground, his opponent wins the point.
Case 1. A return hits the Umpire or his chair or stand. The player claims that the ball was going into Court.
Decision : He loses the point.
A GOOD RETURN :
It is a good return: -
a. If the ball touches the net, posts, singles sticks, cord or metal cable, strap or band, provided that it passes over any of them and hits the ground within the Court; or
b. If the ball, served or returned, hits the ground within the proper Court and rebounds or is blown back over the net, and the player whose turn it is to strike reaches over the net and plays the ball, provided that he does not contravene Rule 20 (e); or
c. If the ball is returned outside the posts, or singles sticks, either above or below the level of the top to the net, even though it touches the posts or singles sticks, provided that it hits the ground within the proper Court; or
d. If a player’s racket passes over the net after he has returned the ball, provided the ball passes the net before being played and is properly returned; or
e. If a player succeeds in returning the ball, served or in play, which strikes a ball lying in the Court.
Note : In a singles match, if, for the sake of convenience, a Doubles Court is equipped with singles sticks for the purpose of a singles game, then the doubles posts and those portions of the net, cord or metal cable and the band outside such singles sticks shall at all times be permanent fixtures, and are not regarded as posts or parts of the net of singles game.
A return that passes under the net cord between the singles stick and adjacent doubles post without touching either net cord, net or doubles post and falls within the court, is a good return.
Case 1. A ball going out of Court hits a net post or singles stick and falls within the lines of the opponent’s Court. Is the stroke good?
Decision : If a service; no, under Rule 10 (c). If other than a service; yes, under Rule 24 (a).
Case 2. Is it a good return if a player returns the ball holding his racket in both hands?
Decision : Yes.
Case 3. The service, or ball in play, strikes a ball lying in the Court. Is the point won or lost thereby?
Decision : No. play must continue. If it is not clear to the Umpire that the right ball is returned a let should be called.
Case 4. May a player use more than one racket at any time during play?
Decision : No. The whole implication of the Rules is singular.
Case 5. May a player request that a ball or balls lying in his opponent’s Court be removed?
Decision : Yes, but not while a ball is in play.
HINDRANCE OF A PLAYER :
In case a player is hindered in making a stroke by anything not within his control, except a permanent fixture of the Court, or except as provided for in Rule 21, a let shall be called.
Case 1. A spectator gets into the way of a player, who fails to return the ball. May the player then claim a let?
Decision : Yes. If in the Umpire’s opinion he was obstructed by circumstances beyond his control, but not if due to permanent fixtures of the Court or the arrangements of the ground.
Case 2. A player is interfered with as in Case No. 1, and the Umpire calls a let. The Server had previously served a fault. Has he the right to two services?
Decision : Yes. As the ball is in play, the point, not merely the stroke, must be replayed as the Rule provides.
Case 3. May a player claim a let under Rule 25 because he thought his opponent was being hindered, and consequently did not except the ball to be returned?
Decision : No.
Case 4. Is a stroke good when a ball in play hits another ball in the air?
Decision : A let should be called unless the other ball is in the air by the act of one of the players, in which case the Umpire will decided under Rule 21.
Case 5. If an Umpire or other judge erroneously calls "fault" or "out", and then corrects himself, which of the calls shall prevail?
Decision : A let must be called unless, in the opinion of the Umpire, neither player is hindered in his game, in which case the correct call shall prevail.
Case 6. If the first ball served – a fault – rebounds, interfering with the Receiver at the time of the second service, may the Receiver claim a let?
Decision : Yes. But if he had an opportunity to remove the ball from the Court and negligently failed to do so, he may not claim a let.
Case 7. Is it a good stroke if the ball touches a stationery or moving object on the Court.
Decision It is a good stroke unless the stationary object came into Court after the ball was put in to play in which case a let must be called. If the ball in play strikes an object moving along or the surface of the Court a let must be called.
Case 8. What is the ruling if the first service is a fault, the second service correct, and it becomes necessary to call a let either under the provision of Rule 25 or if the Umpire is unable to decide the Point?
Decision : The fault shall be annulled and the whole point replayed.
SCORE IN A GAME :
a. If a player wins his first point, the score is called 15 for that player; on winning his second point, the score is called 30 for that player; on winning his third point, the score is called 40 for that player, and the fourth point won by a player is score game for that player except as bellow: -
If both players have won three points, the score is called deuce; and the next point won by a player is scored advantage for that player. If the same player wins the next point, he wins the game; if the other player wins the next point the score is again called deuce; and so no until a player wins the two points immediately following the score at deuce, when the game is scored for that pl
b. Optional Alternative Scoring system
The No – Ad System of Scoring may be adopted an alternative to the traditional scoring system during the period 1 January 1999 to 31 December 2000 provided the decision is announced in advance of the event.
In this case, the following Rules shall be effective:
If a player wins his first point, the score is called 15 for the player; on winning his second point, the score is called 30 for that player; on winning his third point, the score is called 40 for that player, and the fourth point won by a player is scored game for that player except as bellow:
If both players have won three points, the score is called deuce; one deciding point shall then be played whereby the receiver shall choose whether he wishes to receive the service from the right-half of the court or the left-half of the court. The player who wins the deciding point is scored the game.
Doubles
In doubles a similar procedure to that for singles shall apply. At deuce the Receiving Team shall choose whether it wishes to receive the Service from the right half of the court or the left half of the court. The team who wins the deciding point is scored the game.
Mixed doubles
In mixed doubles, a slightly different procedure will apply as follows: At deuce, with the male player serving, he shall serve to the male player of the opposing team irrespective of which half of the court he is standing, and when the female player is serving. She will serve to the female player of the opposing team.
SCORE IN A SET :
a. A player (or players) who first wins six games wins a set; except that he must win by a margin of two games over his opponent and where necessary a set shall be extended until this margin is achieved.
b. The tiebreak system of scoring may be adopted as an alternative to the advantage set system in paragraph (a) of this Rule provided the decision is announced in advance of the match.
In this case, the following Rules shall be effective:
The tie-break shall operate when the score reaches six games all in any set except in the third or fifth set of a three set or five set match respectively when an ordinary advantage set shall be played, unless otherwise decided and announced in advance of the match.
The following system shall be used in a tiebreak game.
Singles:
I. A player who first wins seven points shall win the game and the set provided he leads by a margin of two points. If the score reaches six points all the game shall be extended until this margin has been achieved. Numerical scoring shall be used throughout the tiebreak game.
II. The player whose turn it is to serve shall be the Server for the first point. His opponent shall be the Server for the second and third points and thereafter each player shall serve alternately for two consecutive points until the winner of the game and set has been decided.
III. From the first point, each service shall be delivered alternately from the right and left Courts, beginning from the right court. If service from a wrong half of the Court occurs and is undetected, all play resulting from such wrong service or services shall stand, but the inaccuracy of station shall be corrected immediately it is discovered.
IV. Players shall change ends after every six points and at the conclusion of the tiebreak game.
V. The tie-break game shall count as one game for the ball change, except that, if the balls are due to be changed at the beginning of the tie-break, the change shall be delayed until the second game of the following set.
Doubles:
In doubles the procedure for singles shall apply. The player whose turn it is to serve shall be the Server for the first point. Thereafter each player shall serve in rotation for two points, in the same order previously in that set, until the winners of the game and sets have been decided.
Rotation of Service:
The player (or pair in the case of doubles) whose turn it was to serve first in the tiebreak game shall receive service in the first game of the following set.
Case 1. At six all the tiebreak is played, although it has been decided and announced in advance of the match that an advantage set will be played. Are the points already played counted?
Decision : If the error is discovered before the ball is put in play for the second point, the first point shall count but the error shall be corrected immediately. If the error is discovered after the ball is put in play for the second point the game shall continue as a tiebreak game.
Case 2. At six all, an advantage game is played, although it has been decided and announced in advance of the match that a tiebreak will be played. Are the points already played counted?
Decision : If the error is discovered before the ball is put in play for the second point, the first point shall be counted but the error shall be corrected immediately. If the error is discovered after the ball is put in play for the second point an advantage set shall be continued. If the score thereafter reaches eight games all or a higher even number, a tiebreak shall be played.
Case 3. If during a tiebreak in a singles or doubles game, a player serves out of turn, shall the order of service remain as altered until the end of the game?
Decision : If a player has completed his turn of service the order of service shall remain as altered. If the error is discovered before a player has completed his turn of service the order of service shall be corrected immediately and any points already played shall count.
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SETS :
The maximum number of sets in a match shall be 5, or, where women take part, 3.
ROLE OF COURT OFFICIALS :
In matches where an Umpire is appointed, his decision shall be final; but where a Referee is appointed, an appeal shall lie to him from the decision of an Umpire on a question of law, and in all such case the decision of the Referee shall be final.
In matches where assistants to the Umpire are appointed (Lines persons, Net-cord Judges, Foot-fault Judges) their decision shall be final on question of fact except that if in the opinion of an Umpire a clear mistake has been made he shall have the right to change the decision of an assistant or order a let to be played. When such an assistant is unable to give a decision he shall indicate this immediately to the Umpire who shall give a decision. When an Umpire is unable to give a decision on a question of fact he shall order a let to be played.
In Davis Cup matches or other team competition where a Referee is on Court, any decision can be changed by the Referee, who may also instruct an Umpire to order a let to be played.
The Referee, in his discretion, may at any time postpone a match on account of darkness or the condition of the ground or the weather. In any case of postponement the previous score and previous occupancy of courts shall hold good, unless the Referee and the players unanimously agree otherwise.
Case 1. The Umpire orders a let, but a player claims the point should not be replayed. May the Referee be requested to give a decision?
Decision : Yes. A question of tennis law, that is an issue relating to the application of specific facts, shall first be determined by the Umpire. However, if the Umpire is uncertain or if a player appeals from his determination, then the Referee shall be requested to give a decision, and his decision is final.
Case 2. A ball is called out, but a player claims that the ball was good. May the Referee give a ruling?
Decision : No. This is a question of fact, that is an issue relating to what actually occurred during a specific incident, and the decision of the on-court officials is therefore final.
Case 3. May an Umpire overrule a Linesman at the end of a rally if, in his opinion, a clear mistake has been made during the course of a rally?
Decision : No. An Umpire may overrule a Linesman only if he does so immediately after the mistake has been made.
Case 4. A Linesman calls a ball out. The Umpire was unable to see clearly, although he thought the ball was in. May he overrule the Linesman?
Decision : No. An umpire may overrule if he considers that a call was incorrect beyond all reasonable doubt. He may overrule a ball determined good by a Linesman only if he has been able to see a space between the ball and the line; and he may overrule a ball determined out, or a fault, by a linesman only if he has seen the ball hit the line, or fall inside the line, or fall inside the line.
Case 5. May a Linesman change his call after the Umpire has given the score?
Decision : Yes. If a Linesman realizes he has made an error, he may make a correction provided he does so immediately.
Case 6. A player claims his return shot was good after a linesman called "out". May the Umpire overrule the Linesman?
Decision : No. An Umpire may never overrule as a result of a protest or an appeal by a player.
CONTINUOUS PLAY & REST PERIODS :
Play shall be continuous from the first service until the match is concluded, in accordance with the following provisions:
a. If the first service is a fault, the second service must be struck by the Server without delay.
The Receiver must play to the reasonable pace of the Server and must be ready to receive when the Server is ready to serve.
When changing ends a maximum of one minute thirty seconds shall elapse from the moment the ball goes out of play at the end of the game to the time the ball is struck for the first point of the next game.
The Umpire shall use his discretion when there is interference, which makes it impracticable for play to be continuous.
The Organizers of international circuits and team events recognized by the ITF may determine the time allowed between points, which shall not at any time exceed twenty (20) seconds from the moment the ball goes out of play at the end of one point to the time the ball is struck for the next point.
b. Play shall never be suspended, delayed or interfered with for the purpose of enabling a player to recover his strength, breath, or physical condition. However, in the case of accidental injury, the Umpire may allow a one-time three-minute suspension for that injury.
c. If, through circumstances outside the control of the player, his clothing, footwear or equipment (excluding racket) becomes out of adjustment in such a way that it is impossible or undesirable for him to play on, the Umpire may suspend play while the maladjustment is rectified.
d. The Umpire may suspend or delay play at any time as may be necessary and appropriate.
e. After the third set, or when women take part the second set, either player shall be entitled to a rest, which shall not exceed 10 minutes, or in countries situated between latitude 15 degrees north and latitude 15 degrees south, 45 minutes and furthermore, when necessitated by circumstances not within the control of the players, the Umpire may suspend play for such a period as he may consider necessary. If play is suspended and is not resumed until a later day the rest may be taken only after the third set (or when women take part the second set) of play on such a later day. Completion of an unfinished set being counted as one set.
If play is suspended and is not resumed until 10 minutes have elapsed in the same day the rest may be taken only after three consecutive sets have been played without interruption (or when women take part two sets), completion of an unfinished set being counted as one set.
Any nation and / or committee organizing tournament, match or competition, is at liberty to modify this provision or omit it from its regulations provided this is announced before the event commences. With respect to the Davis Cup and Fed Cup, only the International Tennis Federation may modify this provision or omit it from its Regulations.
f. A tournament committee has the discretion to decide the time allowed for a warm-up period prior to a match but this may not exceed five minutes and must be announced before the event commences.
g. When approved point penalty and non-accumulative point penalty systems are in operation, the Umpire shall make his decisions within the terms of those systems.
h. Upon violation of the principle that play shall be continuous the Umpire may, after giving due warning, disqualify the offender.
COACHING:
During the playing of a match in a team competition, a player may receive coaching from a captain who is sitting on the court only when he changes ends at the end of a game, but not when he changes ends during a tiebreak game.
A player may not receive coaching during the playing of any other match. The provision of this rule must be strictly construed.
After due warning an offending player may be disqualified. When an approved point penalty system is in operation, the Umpire shall impose penalties according to that system.
Case 1. Should a warning be given, or the player be disqualified, if the coaching is given by signals in an unobtrusive manner?
Decision : The Umpire must take action as soon as he becomes aware that coaching is being given verbally or by signals. If the Umpire is unaware that coaching is being given, a player may draw his attention to the fact that advice is being given.
Case 2. Can a player receive coaching during an authorized rest period under Rule 30 (e), or when play is interrupted and he leaves the court?
Decision : Yes. In these circumstances, when the player is not on the court, there is no restriction on coaching.
Note : The word "coaching" includes any advice or instruction.
BALL CHANGE:
In case where balls are to be changed after a specified numbers of games, if the balls were not changed in the correct sequence, the mistake shall be corrected when the player, or pair in the case of doubles, who should have served with new balls is next due to serve. Thereafter the balls shall be changed so that the number of games between changes shall be that originally agreed.
THE DOUBLES GAME:
The above Rules shall apply to the Doubles Game except as bellow.
THE DOUBLES COURT:
For the doubles Game, the court shall be 36 feet (10.97 m.) in width, i.e. 4½ feet (1.37 m.) wider on each side than the Court for the Singles Game, and those portions of the singles sidelines which lie between the two service lines shall be called the service side-lines. In other respects, the Court shall be similar to that described in Rule 1, but the portions of the singles side-lines between the base-line and service-line on each side of the net may be omitted if desired.
ORDER OF SERVICE IN DOUBLES:
The order of serving shall be decided at the beginning of each set as follows :-
The pair who have to serve in the first game of each set shall decide which partner shall do so and the opposing pair shall decided similarly for the second game. The partner of the player who served in the first game shall serve in the third; the partner of the player who served in the second game shall serve in the fourth, and so on in the same order in all the subsequent games of a set.
Case 1. In doubles, one player does not appear in time to play, and his partner claims to be allowed to play single-handed against the opposing players. May he do so?
Decision : No.
ORDER OF RECEIVING IN DOUBLES:
The order of receiving the service shall be decided at the beginning of each set as follows: -
The pair who have to receive the service in the first game shall decide which partner shall receive the first game, and the partner shall continue to receive the service in every odd game throughout that set. The opposing pair shall likewise decide which partner shall receive the first service in the second game and that partner shall continue to receive the first service in every even game throughout that set. Partners shall receive the service alternately throughout each game.
Case 1. Is it allowable in doubles for the Server’s partner or the Receiver’s partner to stand in a position that obstruct the view of the Receiver?
Decision : Yes. The Server’s partner or the Receiver’s partner may take any position on his side of the net in or out of the Court that he wishes.
SERVICE OUT OF TURN IN DOUBLES:
If a partner serves out of his turn, the partner who ought to have served shall serve as soon as the mistake is discovered, but all points scored, and any faults served before such discovery, shall be reckoned. If a game shall have been completed before such discovery, the order of service remains as altered.
ERROR IN ORDER OF RECEIVING IN DOUBLES:
If during a game the order of receiving the service is changed by the Receivers it shall remain as altered until the end of the game in which the mistake is discovered, but the partners shall resume their original order of receiving in the next game of that set in which they are Receivers of the service.
SERVICE FAULT IN DOUBLES:
The service is a fault as provided for by Rule 10, or if the ball touches the Server’s partner or anything which he wears or carries; but if the ball served touches the partner of the Receiver, or anything which he wears or carries, not being a let under Rule 14 (a) before it hits the ground, the Server wins the point.
PLAYING THE BALL IN DOUBLES :
The ball shall be struck alternately by one or other player of the opposing pairs, and if a player touches the ball in play with his racket in contravention of this Rule, his opponents win the point.
Note 1 : Except where otherwise stated, every reference in these Rules to the masculine includes the feminine gender.
Note 2 : See Rule 26 (b) with regard to the Optional Alternative Scoring System in Doubles and Mixed.
RULES OF WHEELCHAIR TENNIS
The game of wheelchair tennis follows the same rules as able-bodied tennis as endorsed by the International Tennis Federation except the wheelchair tennis player is allowed two bounces of the ball. The player must return the ball before it hits the ground a third time. The wheelchair is part of the body and all applicable ITF Rules which apply to a players body shall apply to the wheelchair.
1. THE COMPETITIVE WHEELCHAIR TENNIS PLAYER :
a. In order to be eligible to compete in sanctioned ITF wheelchair tennis tournaments and the paralympic games, a player must have a medically diagnosed permanent mobility-related physical disability. This permanent physical disability must result in a substantial or total loss of function in one or more lower extremities. If, as a result of these functional limitations, the player is unable to play competitive able-bodied tennis (that is, having the mobility to cover the court with adequate speed), then the player is eligible to play competitive wheelchair tennis in sanctioned ITF wheelchair tennis tournaments.
b. Examples of permanent disabilities that meet the eligibility criteria are: paralysis, amputation; radiological evidence of limb shortening; partial to full joint ankylosis or joint replacement. Such physical disabilities must contracture, interfere with functional mobility. Findings such as soft tissue contracture, ligamentous instability, edema or disuse atrophy, or symptoms such as pain or numbness, without other eligibility criteria listed above shall not be considered a permanent physical disability.
c. A quadriplegic division player shall be characterized as one who meets the criteria for permanent physical disability as defined above in at least three extremities.
Any questions or appeal to a player’s eligibility to participate under this rule will be decided under the procedures listed in Appendix III.
2. THE SERVICE :
a. The served ball may, after hitting the ground in the service court, hit the ground once again within the bounds of the court or it may hit the ground outside the court boundaries before the receiver returns it.
b. The service shall be delivered in the following manner. Immediately before commencing to serve, the server shall be in a stationary position. The server shall then be allowed on push before striking the ball.
c. The server shall throughout the delivery of the service not touch with any wheel, any area other than that behind the baseline within the imaginary extension of the centre mark and sideline.
d. If conventional methods for the service are physically impossible for a quadraplegic player, then an individual may drop the ball for such a player.
3. THE BALLIN PLAY:
The ball is in play until the point is decided. The ball must be returned into the opponents court to it touching the ground a third time. The second bounce can be either in or out of the court boundaries.
4. PLAYER LOSSES POINT :
A player loses a point if :
a. He fails to return the ball before it has touched the ground three times.
b. He uses any part of his feet or lower extremities as brakes or as stabilizers while delivering service, stroking a ball, turning or stopping.
c. He fails to keep one buttock in contact with wheelchair seat when contacting the ball.
5. WHEELCHAIR / ABLE- BODIED TENNIS:
Where a wheelchair player as defined in Rule 1 above, is playing with or against an able-bodied person in singles or in doubles, the Rules of Wheelchair Tennis shall apply for the wheelchair player while the Rules of Tennis for able-bodied tennis shall apply for the able-bodied player. In this instance, the wheelchair player is allowed two bounces while the able-bodied player is allowed only one bounce.
Note : The definition of lower extremities is :- the lower limb, including the buttocks, hip, thigh, leg, ankle and foot.
AMMENDMENTS TO THE RULES OF TENNIS
The official and decisive to the Rules of Tennis shall be for ever in the English language and no alternation or interpretation of such Rules shall be made except at an Annual General Meeting of the Council, nor unless notice of the resloution embodying such alternation shall have been received by the Federation in according with Article 16 of the Constitution of ITF Ltd. (Notice of Resolution) and such resolution or one having the like effect shall be carried by a majority of two-thirds of the votes recorded in respect of the same.
Any alternation so made shall take effect as from the first day of January following unless the Meeting shall by the like majority decide otherwise.
The Board of Directors shall have power, however, to settle all urgent questions of interpretation subject to confirmation at the General Meeting next following.
This Rule shall not be altered at any time without the unanimous consent of a General Meeting of the Council.
APPENDIX I
REGULATIONS FOR MAKING TESTS
SPECIFIED IN RULE 3.
i. Unless otherwise specified all tests shall be made at a temperature of approximately 68 0 Fahrenheit (20 0 Centigrade) and a relative humidity of approximately 60 per cent. All balls shall be removed from their container and kept at the recognised temperature and humidity for 24 hours prior to testing, and shall be at that temperature and humidity when the test is commenced.
ii. Unless otherwise specified the limits are for a test conducted in an atmosphere pressure resulting in a barometric reading of approximately 30 inches (76 cm.).
iii. Other standards may be fixed for localities where the average temperature, humidity or average barometric pressure at which the game is being played differ materially from 68 0 Fahrenheit (20 0 Centigrade), 60 per cent iand 30 inches (76 cm.) respectively.
iv. In all tests for diameter a ring gauge shall be used consisting of a metal plate, preferably non-corrosive, of a uniform thickness of one-eight of an inch (.318 cm.) in which there are two circular opening 2.575 inches (6.514 cm.) and 2.700 inches (6.858 cm.) in diameter respectively. The inner surface of the gauge shall have a convex profile with a radius of one-sixteenth of an inch (.156 cm.). the ball shall not drop through the smaller opening by its own weight and shall drop through the larger opening by its own weight.
v. In all tests for deformation conducted under Rule 3, the machine designed by Percy Herbert Stevens and Patented in Great Britain under Patent No. 230250, together with the subsequent additions and improvements thereto, including the modifications required to take return deformations, shall be employed. Other machines may be specified which give equivalent readings to the Stevens machine and these may be used for testing ball deformation where such machines have been given approval by the International Tennis Federation.
vi. Procedure for carrying out tests :
a. Pre-compression. Before any ball is tested it shall be steadily compressed by approximately on inch (2.54 cm.) on each of three diameters at right angles to one another in succession; this process to be carried out three times (nine compressions in all). All tests to be completed within two hours of pre-compression.
b. Bound test (as in Rule 3). Measurements are to be taken from the concrete base to the bottom of the ball.
c. Size test (as in paragraph (iv) above).
d. Weight test (as in Rule 3).
e. Deformation test. The ball is placed in position on the modified Stevens machine so that neither platen of the machine is in contact with the cover seam. The contact weight is applied, the pointer and the mark brought level, and the dials set to zero. The test weight equivalent to 18lb (8.155 kg.) is placed on the beam and pressure applied by turning the wheel at a uniform speed so that five seconds elapse from the instant the beam leaves its seat until the pointer is brought level with the mark. When turning ceases the reading is recorded (forward deformation). The wheel is turned again until figure ten is reached on the scale (one inch (2.54 cm.) deformation). The wheel is then rotated in the opposite direction at a uniform speed (thus releasing pressure) until the beam pointer again coincides with the mark. After waiting ten seconds the pointer is adjusted to the mark if necessary. The reading is then recorded (return deformation). This procedure is repeated on each ball across the two diameters at right angles to the initial position and to each other.
APPENDIX II
PROCEDURES FOR REVIEW AND HEARINGS ON THE RULES OF TENNIS
1. INTRODUCTION
i. These procedures where approved by the Board of the International Tennis Federation ("Board of Directors") on 17 May 1998.
ii. The Board of Directors may from time to time supplement, amend, or vary these procedures.
2. OBJECTIVES
I. The International Tennis Federation is the custodian of the Rules of Tennis and is committed to :
a. preserving the traditional character and integrity of the game of tennis.
b. Actively preserving the skill traditionally required to play the game.
c. Encouraging improvements, which maintain the challenge of the game.
d. Ensuring fair competition.
II. To ensure fair, consistent and expeditious review and hearing in relation to the Rules of Tennis the procedures set out bellow shall apply.
3. SCOPE
1. These Procedures shall apply to Rulings under :
a. Rule 1 - The Court.
b. Rule 3 - The Ball.
c. Rule 4 - The Racket.
d. Appendix 1 of the Rules of Tennis.
e. Any other Rules of Tennis which the International Tennis Federation may decide.
4. STRUCTURE
a. Under these procedures Ruling shall be issued by a Ruling Board.
b. Such Rulings shall be final save, for an entitlement to appeal to an Appeal Tribunal pursuant to these procedures.
5.APPLICATION
Rulings shall be taken either :
a. Following a motion of the Board of Directors; or
b. Upon the receipt of an application in accordance with the procedure set out bellow.
6. APPOINTMENTS AND COMPOSITION OF RULING BOARDS
I. Ruling Boards shall be appointed by the President of the International Tennis Federation ("President") or his designee and shall comprise of such a number, as the President or his designee determine.
II. If more than one person is appointed to the Ruling Board the Ruling Board shall nominate one person from amongst themselves to act as Chairperson.
III. The Chairperson shall be entitled to regulate the procedures prior to and at any review and / or hearing of a Ruling Board.
7. PROPOSED RULINGS BY THE RULING BOARD
I. The details of any proposed Ruling issued upon the motion of the Board of Directors may be provided to any bona fide person or any players, equipment manufacturing of national association or members thereof with an interest in the proposed Ruling.
II. Any person so notified shall be given a reasonable period within which to forward comments, objections, or requests for information to the President or his designee in connection with the proposed Ruling.
8. APPLICATION FOR RULLING
I. An application for a Ruling may be made by any party with a bona fide interest in the Ruling including any player, equipment manufacture or national association or member thereof.
II. Any application for a Ruling must be submitted in writing to the President.
III. To be valid an application for a Ruling must include the following minimum information:
a. The full name and address of the Applicant.
b. The date of the application.
c. A statement clearly identifying the interest of the Applicant in the question upon which a Ruling is requested.
d. All relevant documentary evidence upon which the Applicant intends to rely at any hearing.
e. If, in the opinion of the Applicant, expert evidence is necessary he shall include a request for such expert evidence to be heard. Such request must identify the name of any expert proposed and their relevant expertise.
f. When an applicant for a Ruling on a racket or other piece of equipment is made, a prototype, or, exact, copy of the equipment in question must be submitted with the application for a Ruling.
g. If, in the opinion of the Applicant, there are extraordinary or unusual circumstances, which require a Ruling to be made within a specified time or before a specified date he shall include a statement describing the extraordinary or unusual circumstances.
IV. If an application for a Ruling does not contain the information and / or equipment referred to at Clause 8.3 (a)-(g) above the President or his designee shall notify the Applicant giving the Applicant a specified reasonable time within which to remedy the defect. If the Applicant fails to remedy the defect within the specified time the application shall be dismissed.
9. CONVENING THE RULING BOARD
1. On receipt of a valid application or on the motion of the Board of Directors the President or his designee may convene a Ruling Board to deal with the application or motion.
2. The Ruling Board need not hold a hearing to deal with an application or motion where the application or motion, in the opinion of the Chairperson can be resolved in a fair manner without a hearing.
10. PROCEDURE OF THE RULING BOARD
I. The Chairperson of a Ruling Board shall determine the appropriate form, procedure and date of any review and / or hearing.
II. The Chairperson shall provide written notice of those matters set out at 10.1 above to any Applicant or any person or association who has expressed an interest in the proposed Rulling.
III. The Chairperson shall determine all matters relating to evidence and shall not be bound by judicial rules governing procedure and admissibility of evidence provided that the review and / or hearing is conducted in a fair manner with a reasonable opportunity for the relevant parties to present their case.
IV. Under these Procedures any review and / or hearings :
a. Shall take place in private.
b. May be adjourned and / or postponed by the Ruling Board.
V. The Chairperson shall have the discretion to co-opt from time to time additional members onto the Ruling Board with special skill or experience to deal with specific issues, which require such special skill or experience.
VI. The Ruling Board shall take its decision by a simple majority. No member of the Ruling Board may abstain.
VII. The Chairperson shall have the complete discretion to make such order against the Applicant (and / or other individuals organisations commenting objecting or requesting information at any review and / or hearing) in relation to the costs of the application and / or the reasonable expenses incurred by the Ruling Board in holding tests or obtaining reports relating to equipment subject to a Ruling as he shall deem appropriate.
11. NOTIFICATION
I. Once a Ruling Board has reached a decision it shall provide written notice to the Applicant, or, any person or association who has expressed an interest in the proposed Ruling as soon as reasonably practicable.
II. Such written notice shall include a summary of the reasoning behind the decision of the Ruling Board.
III. Upon notification to the Applicant or upon such other date specified by the Ruling Board the Ruling of the Ruling Board shall be immediately binding under the Rules of Tennis.
12. APPLICATION OF CURRENT RULES OF TENNIS
a. Subject to the power of the Ruling Board to issue interim Rulings the current Rules of Tennis shall continue to apply until any review and / or hearing of the Ruling Board is concluded and a Ruling issued by the Ruling Board.
b. Prior to and during any review and / or hearing the Chairperson of the Ruling Board may issue such directions as are deemed reasonably necessary in the implementation of the Rules of Tennis and of these procedures including the issue of interim Rulings.
c. Such interim Ruling may include restraining orders on the use of any equipment under the Rules of Tennis pending a Ruling by the Ruling Board as to whether or not the equipment meets the specification of the Rules of
Tennis.
13. APPOINTMENTS AND COMPOSITION OF APPEAL TRIBUTES
a. Appeal Tribunals shall be appointed by the President or his designee from (members of the Board of Directors / Technical Commissions).
b. No member of the Ruling Board who made the original Ruling shall be a member of the Appeal Tribunal.
c. The Appeal Tribunal shall comprise of such number as the President or his designee shall determine but shall be no less than three.
d. The Appeal Tribunal shall nominate one person from amongst themselves to act as Chairperson.
e. The Chairperson shall be entitled to regulate the procedures prior to and at any appeal hearing.
14. APPLICATION TO APPEAL
I. An Applicant (or a person or association who has expressed an interest and forwarded any comments, objections, or requests to proposed Ruling) may appeal any Ruling of the Ruling Board.
II. To be valid an application for an appeal must be :
a. Made in writing to the Chairperson of the Ruling Board who made the Ruling appealed not later than (45) days following notification of the Ruling;
b. Must set out details of the Ruling appealed against; and
c. Must contain the full grounds of the appeal.
III. Upon receipt of a valid application to appeal the Chairperson of the Ruling Board making the original Ruling may require a reasonable appeal fee to be paid by the Appellant as a condition of appeal. Such appeal fee
shall be repaid to the Appellant if the appeal is successful.
15. CONVENING THE APPEAL TRIBUNAL
The President or his designee shall convene the Appeal Tribunal following payment by the Appellant of any appeal fee.
16. PROCEDURE OF APPEAL TRIBUNAL
a. The Appeal Tribunal and their Chairperson shall conduct procedures and hearings in accordance with those matters set out in sections 10, 11 and 12 above.
b. Upon notification to the Appellant or upon such other date specified by the Appeal Tribunal the Ruling of the Appeal Tribunal shall be immediately binding and final under the Rules of Tennis.
17. GENERAL
a. If a Ruling Board Consists of only one member that single member shall be responsible for regulating the hearing as Chairperson and shall determine the procedure to be followed prior to and during and review and / or hearing.
b. All review and / or hearing shall be conducted in English. In any hearing where an Applicant and / or other individuals or organisations commenting, objecting or requesting information do not speak English an interpreter must be present. Whenever practicable the interpreter shall be independent.
c. The Ruling Board or Appeal Tribunal may publish extracts from its own Rulings.
d. All notifications to be made pursuant to these procedures shall be in writing.
e. Any notification made pursuant to these procedures shall be deemed notified upon the date that they were communicated. Sent or transmitted to the Applicant or other relevant party.
f. A Ruling Board shall have the discretion to dismiss an application if in its reasonable opinion the application is subsequently similar to an application or motion upon which a Ruling Board has made a decision and / or Ruling within the 36 months prior to the date of the application.
12. APPLICATION OF CURRENT RULES OF TENNIS
a. Subject to the power of the Ruling Board to issue interim Rulings the current Rules of Tennis shall continue to apply until any review and / or hearing of the Ruling Board is concluded and a Ruling issued by the Ruling Board.
b. Prior to and during any review and / or hearing the Chairperson of the Ruling Board may issue such directions as are deemed reasonably necessary in the implementation of the Rules of Tennis and of these procedures including the issue of interim Rulings.
c. Such interim Ruling may include restraining orders on the use of any equipment under the Rules of Tennis pending a Ruling by the Ruling Board as to whether or not the equipment meets the specification of the Rules of Tennis.
13. APPOINTMENTS AND COMPOSITION OF APPEAL TRIBUTES
a. Appeal Tribunals shall be appointed by the President or his designee from (members of the Board of Directors / Technical Commissions).
b. No member of the Ruling Board who made the original Ruling shall be a member of the Appeal Tribunal.
c. The Appeal Tribunal shall comprise of such number as the President or his designee shall determine but shall be no less than three.
d. The Appeal Tribunal shall nominate one person from amongst themselves to act as Chairperson.
e. The Chairperson shall be entitled to regulate the procedures prior to and at any appeal hearing.
14. APPLICATION TO APPEAL
I. An Applicant (or a person or association who has expressed an interest and forwarded any comments, objections, or requests to proposed Ruling) may appeal any Ruling of the Ruling Board.
II. To be valid an application for an appeal must be :
a. Made in writing to the Chairperson of the Ruling Board who made the Ruling appealed not later than (45) days following notification of the Ruling;
b. Must set out details of the Ruling appealed against; and
c. Must contain the full grounds of the appeal.
III. Upon receipt of a valid application to appeal the Chairperson of the Ruling Board making the original Ruling may require a reasonable appeal fee to be paid by the Appellant as a condition of appeal. Such appeal fee shall be repaid to the Appellant if the appeal is successful.
15. CONVENING THE APPEAL TRIBUNAL
The President or his designee shall convene the Appeal Tribunal following payment by the Appellant of any appeal fee.
16. PROCEDURE OF APPEAL TRIBUNAL
a. The Appeal Tribunal and their Chairperson shall conduct procedures and hearings in accordance with those matters set out in sections 10, 11 and 12 above.
b. Upon notification to the Appellant or upon such other date specified by the Appeal Tribunal the Ruling of the Appeal Tribunal shall be immediately binding and final under the Rules of Tennis.
17. GENERAL
a. If a Ruling Board Consists of only one member that single member shall be responsible for regulating the hearing as Chairperson and shall determine the procedure to be followed prior to and during and review and / or hearing.
b. All review and / or hearing shall be conducted in English. In any hearing where an Applicant and / or other individuals or organisations commenting, objecting or requesting information do not speak English an interpreter must be present. Whenever practicable the interpreter shall be independent.
c. The Ruling Board or Appeal Tribunal may publish extracts from its own Rulings.
d. All notifications to be made pursuant to these procedures shall be in writing.
e. Any notification made pursuant to these procedures shall be deemed notified upon the date that they were communicated. Sent or transmitted to the Applicant or other relevant party.
f. A Ruling Board shall have the discretion to dismiss an application if in its reasonable opinion the application is subsequently similar to an application or motion upon which a Ruling Board has made a decision and / or Ruling within the 36 months prior to the date of the application.
APPENDIX III
THE WHEELCHAIR TENNIS PLAYER
CHALLENGES AND PROCEDURES FOR A PLAYER’S ELIGIBILTY
1. Challenges
a. The following parties have the right to question a player’s eligibility
o ITF Member Nations (through their General Secretary)
o The wheelchair tennis Player’s Representatives Committee (through their Chairperson)
o The ITF Wheelchair Tennis Committee.
Note 1 : IWTA Member Nations who are not represented by their National Tennis Federation, may submit a challenge through the ITF Wheelchair Tennis Committee who must decide if the challenge should proceed to the Eligibility Sub-Committee.
b. On receipt of a formal written challenge from any of the parites named in 1. A above the ITF must inform the player and ask them to submit sufficient objective medical evidence of permanent physical disability in writing to the Eligibility Sub-Committee of the ITF Wheelchair Tennis Committee with 28 days. The Eligibility Sub-Committee (which shall be made up of at least one medical doctor from the ITF Medical Commission and at least two ITF appointed experts in the Rules of Wheelchair Tennis) must then review the case.
Note 1 : The player may continue to play during the Eligibility Sub-Committee’s investigation. Should the outcome of the Eligibility Sub-Committee be that the player does not meet the minimum criteria as laid out in Rule I of the Rules of Wheelchair Tennis, the player must then cease to play with immediate effect. The only exception
to this is the case of an appeal against the decision by the player as outlined in the Appeals Procedure below.
Note 2 : Failure to submit medical evidence as described above within 28 days of the request being made by the ITF, shall result in automatic suspension of that player until such time as evidence is provided.
Note 3 : The costs incurred by the player in obtaining the medical evidence shall be borne by the player. All costs incurred in the evaluation of medical evidence provided by the player will be the responsibility of the ITF. The player will be instructed by the ITF, regarding how, when and where to provide the necessary medical evidence.
c. If the Eligibility Sub-Committee judges that a player is eligible to compete, their eligibility may not be challenged again for a minimum of 12 months. After this time, all challenges shall be subject to the same procedures as laid out above. If, after a second challenge, the player is still deemed eligible to compete, their eligibility may not be challenged again for a further 3 years.
Note 1 : If a player is challenged after already having been deemed eligible to compete, they may continue to play while any new challenges are being considered.
Appeals Procedure
a. If the Eligibility Sub-Committee judges that supporting medical evidence is insufficient, then the player may appeal within 14 days of the decision and request an evaluation by an independent medical doctor appointed by the ITF Member Nation for that player.
Further to receiving the submission from the medical doctor appointed by the ITF Member Nation, the ITF Medical Commission will give a ruling on the eligibility of the player which shall not be subject to further appeal for a minimum of 12 months (see b. below).
Note 1 : In the case of an appeal being made, the player may continue to play until after the appeal has been heard.
Note 2 : The costs of the evaluation for the appeal will be at the player’s expense. All costs incurred in the evaluation of medical evidence provided by the medical doctor will be the responsibility of the ITF.
b. If a person’s circumstances change in relation to their physical disability in the future, the person is entitled to submit a request to the ITF to be reconsidered. This request may only be made a minimum of 12 months after the first appeal decision. Such a request shall be supported by the new medical evidence and shall be subject to the same process as outlined in Rule I of the Rules of Wheelchair Tennis and this Appendix III.
If, after the second appeal, the player is still deemed ineligible to compete, their case may not be reconsidered for a further 3 years.
Note 1 : If the Eligibility Sub-Committee has already judged that a player is currently ineligible, they may not compete while any new medical evidence is being considered.
PLAN OF THE COURT
SUGGESTIONS ON
HOW TO MARK OUT A COURT
The following procedure is for the usual combined Doubles and Singles Court. (See note at foot for a Court for one purpose only.)
First select the position of the net; a straight line 42 feet (12.8 m.) long. Mark the center (X on the diagram above) and, measuring from there in each direction, mark: -
At 13’6" (4.11 m.) the points a, b, where the net crosses the inner sidelines,
At 16’6" (5.03 m.) the position of the singles posts (or sticks) (n, n),
At 18’0" (5.49 m.) the points A, B, where the net crosses the outer sidelines,
At 21’0" (6.40 m.) the position of the net posts (N, N), being the ends of the original 42’0" (12.8 m.) line.
Insert pegs at A and B and attach to them the respective ends of two measuring tapes. On one, which will measure the diagonal of the half-court, take a length 53’1" (16.18 m.) and on the other (to measure the sideline) a length of 39’0" (11.89 m.). Pull both taut so that at these distances they meet at a point C, which is one corner of the Court. Reverse the measurements to find the other corner D. as a check on this operation it is advisable at this stage to verify the length of the line CD which, being the baseline, should be found to be 36’0" (10.97 m.); and at the same time its center J can be marked, and also the ends of the inner sidelines (c, d), 4"6" (1.37 m.) from C and D. The center-line and service-line are now marked by means of the points F, H, G, which are measured 21’0" (6.40 m.) from the net down the lines bc, XJ, ad, respectively. Identical procedure the other side of the net completes the Court.
Notes :
I. If a Singles Court only is required, no lines are necessary outside the points a, b, c, d, but the Court can be measured out as above. Alternatively, the corners of the base-line (c, d) can be found if preferred by pegging the two tapes at a and b instead of at A and B and by then using lengths of 47’5" (14.46 m.) and 39’0" (11.89 m.). The net posts will be at n, n, and a 33’0" (10 m.) singles net should be used.
II. When a combined doubles and singles Court with a doubles net is used or singles, the net must be supported at the points n, n, to a height of 3 feet 6 inches (1.07 m.) by means of two posts, called "singles sticks", which shall be not more than 3 inches (7.5 cm.) square or 3 inches (7.5 cm.) in diameter. The centres of the singles sticks shall be 3 feet (.914 m.) outside the singles Court on each side. To assist in the placing of these singles sticks it is desirable that the points n, n, should each be shown with a white dot when the Court is marked.
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