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

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 racket 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 requiter 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 rackets, 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 roll. Allow players to make calls, work through any questions and resolve disagreements with their opponent.
  • Maintain composure. Your behavior off the court can effect your players performance and attitiude on the court.
  • Understand that tournament officials or court monitors are there to help players 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 suppotive 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.

 

 

 

                

What's the Call?

What happens when your racquet crosses the net? Can you still win a point if a ball grazes your partner on the way over? What’s the Call is here to answer your questions! Do you have a question for USTA Officiating? Email it to the Final Word at officiating@usta.com and it could be featured in the next What’s the Call.

Bill Talbert Junior Sportsmanship Award

Know a player who exemplifies good sportsmanship? You can nominate them for the USTA Bill Talbert Junior Sportsmanship Award.  

 

Arthur Ashe Leadership Award

2024 Award Winner Alexander Kiefer

 

 

USTA Junior 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.