Etiquette On & Off Court

• You call the ball on your side of the net. If you saw the ball go out, your opponent must accept your call. 

• If you are unsure, the ball should be called in. 

• You may challenge your opponent's call by asking if they’re certain. If they are not, the point is yours. 

• Any balls on your side of the net are your responsibility, and if you are receiving, it is your job to make sure they are returned to the server. 

• If a ball lands in a neighbouring court, wait for an appropriate time in your match and theirs, to retrieve it.

• If play is interrupted in any way, playing a let is the fairest thing to do. Either player can call a let and then you should replay the point. 

• This is the server’s responsibility and the easiest way is to announce the score is before you serve the next ball.

• If your opponent disagrees try to track back the points. If you really can’t agree on the score, you must go back to the last point you both agree on. 

• Tennis can be a tense, adrenaline-fuelled game and no one expects it to be played in silence. Emotions are part of the game, but if you swear and shout, even if it is only at your racquet, it can be off-putting to your opponent. Do your best to keep shouting and screaming to a minimum.

• If friends or family would like to watch a match, just let your opponent know first to be sure they are okay with it. 

• Spectators should remain outside the court, showing support respectfully and should never get involved in line calling.

• Booking arrangements for courts vary widely, but if you are the one who has to cancel, it is your responsibility. You should cover the court fee if this is the case.

• Even if there is no booking fee to lose, if the court has been reserved, do let the venue know. 

If courts are free to use, or don't have booking arrangements: 

• Don't jump the queue or ask someone else to keep your place in the queue.

• Wait outside the courts.

• Don't ask players on court when they are going to finish, or otherwise interrupt their match. You may politely ask the score at a suitable break in play.

• If there are lots of people waiting, keep your warm up to a minimum (or warm up off court).

• Never hold a court for another player.

• Always observe local customs.

The LTA take a zero tolerance approach to inappropriate behaviour or conduct within Local Tennis Leagues. If you feel at immediate risk of harm you should call the police on 999. If you have a complaint around safeguarding or adults at risk you can contact safeguarding@lta.org.uk. For any other concerns around LTL please click here to contact us.

Tell a friend or family member of your plans, including when and where you're playing. Have your phone charged and with you at all times.

It's okay to end the match early if you're feeling uncomfortable. If your instincts are telling you something is off or you feel unsafe, ask someone for help.

We want you to be in control of how you get to and from your match so that you can leave whenever you want. If you're driving yourself, it's a good idea to have a backup plan such as a ride-share app or a friend to pick you up.