Tennis Etiquette for Beginners Explained: What Do’s & Don’ts on Court
If you’re new to tennis, knowing how to behave on court is just as important as learning how to hit a forehand or serve. Understanding tennis etiquette for beginners is the first step toward respectful and enjoyable play. Good etiquette helps you avoid misunderstandings, keeps matches fair, and makes everyone enjoy the game more. Whether you’re practicing, rallying, or playing your first friendly match, proper tennis manners will help you feel confident, respected, and welcome.
This guide covers the essential do’s and don’ts every beginner should follow — so you can step on the court with confidence.
Why Tennis Etiquette Matters
Unlike many sports, tennis has no referee at recreational level. Players must call their own lines, manage their own score, and maintain fair play. These tennis etiquette tips help beginners stay confident and avoid misunderstandings. Etiquette keeps the game smooth, respectful, and fun for both sides.
Good etiquette builds:
✔ Sportsmanship
✔ Respect between players
✔ Fair matches
✔ Smoother gameplay
Even small habits make a big difference in how others see you as a player.
For deeper insight into official tennis behavior standards, you can also check a well-established tennis authority site that explains player conduct and etiquette in detail.
Before you step onto the court, here are the most important tennis etiquette for beginners guidelines to follow.
Tennis Etiquette Do’s (What You SHOULD Do)
1. Warm Up With Your Opponent — Don’t Attack Shots Immediately
Warm-ups are not a competition. Begin gently, increasing pace slowly so both players can find rhythm.
A good 5-minute warm-up prevents mistakes, stiffness, and early frustration.
2. Call Balls Fairly & Clearly
If the ball touches the line, it is IN. If you are unsure, give benefit of the doubt to your opponent.
Fair play builds trust — and trust makes matches more enjoyable.
3. Respect the Score & Announce It Aloud
Begin every point by calling the score clearly, especially when serving.
Example:
“40-30, my serve.”
→ If you don’t know how scoring works well yet, read:
How to Keep Score in Tennis (Points → Game → Set → Match)
4. Wait Before Walking Behind a Court
Never walk across another court during a point. Wait until the rally ends, then pass quickly.
This small action shows respect for others playing.
Practicing beginner tennis etiquette makes matches smoother and more enjoyable for both players.
5. Say “Good Shot” or “Well Played”
A match is more enjoyable when players acknowledge good points. It shows you value skill and effort — even from your opponent.
Tennis Etiquette Don’ts (Habits to Avoid)
1. Don’t Celebrate Opponent Errors
Winning a point because of a double-fault happens — but don’t cheer it loudly or disrespectfully.
Stay humble, whether winning or losing.
2. Don’t Stall or Delay Between Points
Keep matches flowing. Slow play breaks rhythm and can irritate your opponent.
Tip: stick to 20–25 seconds between points.
3. Don’t Throw or Slam Your Racquet
Frustration is normal — but use it as motivation, not emotion. Throwing equipment is unsafe and considered bad sportsmanship.
4. Don’t Argue Over Close Line Calls
If there’s disagreement, replay the point. Tennis values fairness more than ego.
If unsure → call it good.
5. Don’t Talk or Distract Players Mid-Point
Noise, sudden movement, or commenting while the ball is in play is considered disrespectful.
Stay focused & silent during rallies.
Serve Etiquette: Simple Rules to Remember
When serving:
✔ Serve only when your opponent is ready
✔ Announce the score before each point
✔ If your toss is bad, take a second toss calmly
✔ First serve is always directed from the right side of the court
Following these serving habits is part of tennis court manners for beginners and shows respect to your opponent.
If you’re still learning rules, read:
➡ Tennis Rules for Beginners: Simple Guide to Understand the Game
This post builds your foundation — don’t skip it.
Ball Handling Etiquette
If a ball rolls onto another court, stop play immediately and call “Let!”
If YOUR ball goes to another court, always retrieve it quickly after their rally ends, not during it.
If someone passes you a ball:
▪ Catch it or stop it cleanly
▪ Say “Thanks”
▪ Roll it gently back underhand
No fast throws. No headshots. No carelessness.
Final Advice for Beginners
Tennis isn’t only skill — it’s character.
A polite player is always welcome, respected, and invited to play again.
Follow these etiquette basics and you will:
🔺 Look confident & professional
🔺 Earn respect from other players
🔺 Enjoy fair & friendly matches
🔺 Improve faster in a positive environment
Keep practicing these tennis etiquette for beginners principles and you’ll grow into a respected player quickly.
And if you’re just getting started, begin with the fundamentals of the sport:
Start Here First → How to Start Playing Tennis (Beginner Guide)
Learn the Rules → Tennis Rules for Beginners