Sportsmanship Matters!
Bigger than the game
As a tennis player, it is important that in addition to just knowing and following the rules of the game, you also show good sportsmanship on the court. Sportsmanship includes respecting your opponents, playing fair, and doing your part so that everyone is having fun!
The USTA provides resources in order to ensure positive play experiences and good sportsmanship. Check out the Friend at Court to learn more about the Rules of Tennis and The Code.
Here are some tips on how you could be caught being a good sport.
Click here to view the National Sportsmanship Policy
Sportsmanship Tips
Before the Match
- Introduce yourself to your opponent's family/coach.
- Shake hands with officials prior to play.
- Be prepared to always try your best.
- Say hello to your opponent and shake hands.
During the Match
- If you are the server, clearly call out the score before each point.
- Do not serve until your opponent is ready.
- Always show Respect for your opponent, spectators, officials and tournament staff.
- Give your best effort no matter the score.
- Acknowledge or congratulate your opponent’s good shots.
- Keep your racquet in your hand and avoid dropping or throwing it in anger.
- Avoid shouting in frustration, especially during points.
- Be Gracious no matter the circumstances. Stay composed.
- Act with Honesty at all times.
Calling In or Out
- Calling shots accurately isn’t just good sportsmanship, the rules require it. Adhering to “The Code-The Players Guide to Fair Play and the Unwritten Rules of Tennis” is the responsibility of all players, parents and coaches.
- Giving your opponent the Benefit of the Doubt, or correcting a mistake you made is an example of good sportsmanship. It shows your Character and sense of Fairness.
After the Match
- Before leaving the court, show Humility in victory, and Graciousness in defeat. Walk to the net, look your opponent in the eye, tap racquets, shake hands or bump fists and say “good match” or something positive.
- Avoid negative behavior when you lose, such as - throwing your racquet, complaining about your opponent.
- If you win, avoid gloating or taunting your opponent. Stay positive regardless of the outcome of the match.
- Wish your opponent good luck in their next match.
For Parents, Friends, Spectators and Coaches
- Introduce yourself to the opponent’s parents/family if they are in attendance.
- Be understanding and patient with new players as they learn the game. Teach them how to show good sportsmanship in a fun and positive way.
- Emphasize and reinforce the benefits of tennis.
- Play a supportive role. Allow players to make calls, work through any questions and resolve disagreements with their opponent.
- Maintain composure. Your behavior off the court can affect your players performance and attitude on the court.
- Understand that tournament officials or court monitors are there to help player's with scoring, court positioning or any questions they might have.
- Avoid being critical or negative about your player’s performance during or after the match.
- After the match congratulate the opponent and their family and stay positive.
- Be supportive after the match by giving your player time to relax off the court before going into what was happening on the court. Your observations will be received better when given later.
USTA Player Oath
I recognize that tennis is a sport that places the responsibility for fair play on me. I promise to abide by the rules of the game, which require me to give the benefit of the doubt to my opponent. At all times I shall strive to compete with the true spirit of sportsmanship, recognizing that my behavior on the court is a direct reflection of my character. Whether my matches end with my victory or defeat, I promise to conduct myself in a way that honors my opponents, those who support me, and the game of tennis.
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