Whether you are playing a tournament, league match or just out with some friends, the rules of tennis remain the same. Few things create more controversy on a tennis court than bad line calling. The rules, known as the Code when no referees are around, have some flexibility, but one thing is always the same --- in is in and out is out.
Calling It "In"
Any ball landing in or on the line is considered "in bounds." Once upon a time, on grass courts, chalk was used to paint the lines and John McEnroe's famous words of "chalk flew" rang for generations to remember that lines are part of the playing field. It doesn't matter how much of the ball touches the line, as long as there is no space between the ball and the line, the shot is good.
Court Areas
The dimensions of a tennis court start with a basic rectangle measuring 78 feet long by 27 feet wide. The edge of the length is marked with the baseline and the sides are marked with sidelines. Once the point begins, singles players must hit the ball over the net into the opponent's court and stay within singles sidelines and baseline. Doubles uses the same length court with an extra 4 1/2 foot alley added to each sideline. Starting a point requires the server standing behind the baseline, not touching the line, and serving into the opposite service box. The service box is located from the net and extends 21 feet toward the baseline, marked by the service line. The service box is split in two with a service "T" so points can start on alternating court sides for fairness.
Problem Calls
Certain tournament and league matches as well as any friendly game requires players to call their own lines. Potential problems arise with cheating and bad line calls. Keep in mind that there is a lot going on when you are playing a point and things can be distorted. Everyone makes a mistake, however, if you are in an official match and feel cheating is going on, call for the tournament umpire to address the situation. If you are playing with friends at the park, either accept your friend has a bad habit or find a new group to play with.
Court Cameras
With the speed professional tennis players' strike the ball, even referees and umpires have a hard time seeing where the ball lands. Cameras are used for instant replay on certain professional tournament courts. If a court is equipped with these cameras, a player can challenge the call. Players are allowed two incorrect challenges per set and one in a tie-breaker. If the replay shows the player is correct, he keeps the challenge. The chair umpire then decides whether the ball was still in play or an outright winner.
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