Tennis court dimensions are standardized and governed by the International Tennis Federation (ITF).
Key Tennis Courts Dimensions
It is important to know the basic dimensions of tennis courts.
Singles Court
Length: 23.77 meters (78 feet)
Width: 8.23 meters (27 feet)
Doubles Court
Length: 23.77 meters (78 feet)
Width: 10.97 meters (36 feet)
Service Boxes
Length: 6.40 meters (21 feet) from the net to the service line
Width: 4.115 meters (13.5 feet) each, divided by the center service line
Net
Height at the center: 0.91 meters (3 feet)
Height at the posts: 1.07 meters (3.5 feet)
Post Distance: The placement of the posts is 0.914 meters (3 feet) outside the doubles court on each side, making the total distance between the posts 12.8 meters (42 feet).
Additional Areas
Backcourt (space behind the baseline) is typically around 5.5 meters (18 feet) for recreational play, though for professional courts it can be deeper.
Sidelines (space outside the sidelines) is around 3.05 meters (10 feet) on each side.
Additional Tennis Measurements
Run-Off Space is an additional space around the court for player movement and safety.
Backcourt is a minimum of 6.40 meters (21 feet) for professional courts.
Sidelines are a minimum of 3.66 meters (12 feet) for professional courts.
For night play, lighting equips the courts to ensure an even distribution of light without glare. The recommended lighting level is about 300-500 lux for recreational play and up to 1,500 lux for professional tournaments.
Fencing or barriers often surround courts to contain balls and enhance safety. They are usually around 3.66 meters (12 feet).
Surface Types of Tennis Court
Various materials can be used to make tennis courts, each affecting play style and speed. Also you can read about other tennis type games and decide which surface type is best:
Hard Courts
Hard courts are usually made from asphalt or concrete with an acrylic surface layer. Known for providing a consistent bounce and speed of play.
Clay Courts
Clay courts are made from crushed stone, brick, or shale. Slower surface that offers high bounce and is easier on the body.
Grass Courts
Grass courts are made from natural grass. Fastest surface with a low bounce, requiring quick reflexes.
Carpet Courts
Carpet courts are an indoor surface, often made from artificial turf or textile surfaces. Speed varies based on material.
Player Zones and Seating
Player Benches are located on opposite sides of the net, often with shade or protection.
Umpire Chair is an elevated chair near the net for the umpire to oversee the match.
Spectator Seating varies widely, from small bleachers in recreational courts to extensive seating arrangements in stadiums for professional matches.
What are Tennis Court Dimensions Sum Up
These tennis court dimensions ensure a standardized playing area for both singles and doubles matches, ensuring consistency in play across different courts worldwide.
FAQs About Tennis Court Measurements
What is the standard size of a tennis court❓
The standard size of a tennis court is 78 feet long and 27 feet wide for singles matches and 36 feet wide for doubles matches.
What is the size of a regulation tennis court❓
A regulation tennis court is 78 feet long and 27 feet wide for singles matches or 36 feet wide for doubles matches.
What is the length of a tennis court❓
The length of a regulation tennis court is 78 feet.
How wide is a tennis court for singles play❓
The width of a tennis court for singles play is 8.23 meters (27 feet).
What is the width of a doubles tennis court❓
The width of a doubles tennis court is 10.97 meters (36 feet).
How high is the net at the center of a tennis court❓
The net height at the center of a tennis court is 0.91 meters (3 feet).
What are the dimensions of the service boxes❓
Each service box is 6.40 meters (21 feet) in length and 4.115 meters (13.5 feet) in width, divided by the center service line.
Have you ever watched an official table tennis doubles match? If so, you may have wondered what the exact double table tennis rules are.
The rules for a singles match in table tennis can also be very complicated for many spectators and new players.
In this article, we will explain the most important rules for table tennis doubles.
6 Most Important Rules in Doubles Table Tennis
Understanding the key rules of doubles table tennis is essential for playing effectively and enjoying the game with a partner.
1. Serve and Side Selection
In a real competitive game, a coin toss usually determines which team gets to serve first.
In less important games, the referees or players themselves hold a single table tennis ball behind their back and let the teams or the opposing doubles team guess which hand is holding the ball.
The team that wins the draw or guesses the ball correctly may decide which doubles pair will serve first or which side of the table tennis table their team would like to be on first. The other doubles pair may then make the other decision:
If team A decides which team gets to serve first, team B chooses one of the two sides of the table.
If team A chooses one of the two sides of the table, team B is responsible for deciding which team will serve first.
2. Serve
Essentially, the same double ping pong rules apply to the serve during a table tennis doubles match as for a singles match. Also, you can read about the rules and regulations of traditional table tennis.
However, there are some serious differences:
In contrast to a singles match in table tennis, in a doubles match, the ball must first touch the right side of your half of the court and then touch the diagonally opposite side of the opposing doubles team.
The first team to serve may decide which player in their doubles team will serve first. This player may then serve two times in succession.
The opposing team then receives the right to serve, and the player who has just returned the two serves must now make two serves, which player B of doubles 1 accepts.
3. Return of Serve
One of the things that makes doubles unique is that players have to serve and return the ball in a very precise order.
This helps to ensure that all players have the opportunity to hit, especially because some players tend to be more aggressive than others. To illustrate this often confusing aspect of table tennis doubles, take a look at the following example:
The team (team A or team B) that is allowed to serve first may decide which player of the doubles team (player 1 or player 2) serves first. Let’s assume that team A serves first and decides that player 1 serves first.
The team that does not serve first, in this case team B, may decide which player (player 3 or player 4) will return the serve. The team decides that player 3 will return player 1’s serve.
Player 1 serves by the rules, and player 3 returns the ball.
As soon as the ball has landed on Team A’s side of the table, Player 2 must touch the ball so that it lands on Team 2’s side of the table.
As soon as the ball has landed on team B’s side of the table, it is player 4’s turn to hit it.
On team A’s side of the table, player 4 is responsible for playing the ball again. This cycle continues until a doubles team scores a point. If a doubles pair does not follow the sequence, the opposing doubles pair scores a point.
Exception: However, there is a specific case in which this order can be relaxed. In games with disabled participants, anyone from the opposing team can return the ball.
4. Change of Serve
A team has the opportunity to serve twice before the opposing team has the opportunity to serve twice. Exception: In the extra set (from the score 10:10), each doubles pair has only one serve at a time.
If all serves are exhausted, the previous returner becomes the server and the partner of the previous server becomes the returner. I would also like to illustrate this with an example:
Player 1 plays two serves to player 3
Player 3 plays two serves to player 2
Player 2 plays two serves to player 4
Player 4 plays two serves to player 1
Player 1 plays two serves to player 3
…
This sequence is maintained throughout the entire sentence.
5. Change of Sides
As a rule, a table tennis match lasts up to 5 sets or 7 sets. This means that the first doubles pair to win 3 sets or 4 sets has won the whole match.
After each set, as in singles, the sides are swapped. Each time, the pair that served first in the previous set decides which player of their doubles team will serve.
The return server is then the player of the opposing doubles team who served to the new server in the previous set. I will also explain this using an example:
If team 1 had the first serve in the previous set, team 2 now has the first serve and can decide which player serves first. Let’s assume that player 3 serves first.
In the previous set, player 3 took player 1’s serve. Therefore, player 1 now accepts player 3’s serve.
Player 1 plays two serves to player 4
Player 4 plays two serves to player 2
Player 2 plays two serves to player 3
Player 3 plays two serves to player 1
…
This runs through the entire game to ensure that everyone can fulfill every role. It also prevents a doubles pairing where only the player who is supposedly better at serving serves serves.
In a deciding set (fifth or seventh set), the sides are also switched as soon as one of the doubles has reached five points. Here, the serve and return sequence is also changed in exactly the same way as at the end of a set.
6. Scoring
As in a singles match, the doubles team that reaches 11 points first wins a set. At the end of the set, however, there must be a gap of at least two points between the doubles pairings.
So if the score is 10 to 10, the set continues to be played until one of the two pairs has a two-point lead.
But how can you collect points in a table tennis doubles match? Well, there are a few ways in which a team can score points in the race to win the match.
In particular, as in singles, the opposing doubles pair is awarded a point if you play a wrong serve or a wrong return, or if the ball hit by the other doubles pair crosses the baseline without first touching the table.
As a special rule, you should note here (as mentioned above for the serve) that you must play your serve diagonally and that it must first touch your own right side of the table.
Another special feature of doubles is that the opposing doubles team scores a point if the ball is played outside the specified stroke sequence. For example, if a doubles player plays the ball twice in succession.
Strategies and Tactics of Double Table Tennis
Players must not only rely on their skills but also coordinate their efforts with their partners to outmaneuver the opposing team.
Here are some common strategies and tactics in doubles play:
Setting up Your Partner
One of the primary strategies in doubles is to set up your partner for a winning shot. This involves using well-placed shots to create opportunities for your teammate to attack.
For example, a player might aim to hit a shot deep into the corner of the table to force the opponents into a defensive position, allowing their partner to capitalize on the open space with a powerful offensive shot.
Quick Exchanges
Doubles teams often use quick exchanges, also known as rallies, to keep opponents off balance.
By maintaining a fast-paced tempo and alternating shots rapidly between teammates, they can pressure the opposing team and prevent them from settling into a comfortable rhythm.
Quick exchanges can also exploit gaps in the opponents’ defense and force errors.
Targeting the Weaker Player
Another common tactic is identifying and targeting the weaker player on the opposing team. By focusing their attacks on this player, doubles teams can put additional pressure on them and exploit any vulnerabilities in their game.
This might involve directing shots towards their backhand, exploiting their slower reaction times, or testing their consistency under pressure.
Adapting to Opponents
Successful doubles teams understand the importance of adapting their tactics based on the strengths and weaknesses of their opponents.
This might involve making adjustments mid-match, such as changing the placement or pace of shots, to exploit emerging opportunities or counteract the opponents’ strategies.
For example, if the opposing team excels at aggressive attacking play, a doubles team might opt for a more defensive strategy focused on consistency and placement.
Communication and Coordination
Effective communication between doubles partners is very important for implementing strategies and tactics successfully. Players must coordinate their movements, shot selection, and positioning on the court to ensure seamless teamwork.
Clear and concise communication can help players anticipate each other’s actions and react quickly to changing situations, whether through verbal cues or pre-established signals.
Maintaining Pressure
Doubles teams often seek to maintain pressure on their opponents throughout the match.
By consistently applying pressure with aggressive shot-making, strategic placement, and relentless attacking play, they can force errors, create openings, and ultimately control the flow of the game.
Maintaining pressure can also disrupt the opponents’ rhythm and confidence, making it more difficult for them to execute their own strategies effectively.
Conclusion on Double Table Tennis Rules
In doubles table tennis, players need to know different rules from singles. Double table tennis rules make the game more about strategy.
These rules can be hard to get at first. But once you know them, you’ll enjoy doubles table tennis more. You’ll also play better. Understanding these rules is key whether you’re new to the game or have played for a while.
Double Table Tennis Rules – F.A.Q
Do you have to alternate in table tennis doubles❓
In a rally, doubles partners are required to take turns hitting the ball, regardless of its placement on the table.
What is the difference between singles and doubles in table tennis❓
The main difference between singles and doubles in table tennis is the number of players on each side of the table. This difference affects strategies, court coverage, and communication between players.
Can players switch sides during a doubles match❓
No, players must remain on their designated sides throughout the match.
How do players decide who serves first in doubles❓
A coin toss or a guessing game usually determines which team serves first.
Are there specific serving rules for doubles❓
Yes, the serve must first touch the server’s right half of the court and then the diagonally opposite side of the opponents’ court.
Can any player return the serve in doubles❓
Typically, the player designated by the opposing team returns the serve, but there are exceptions for games involving disabled participants.
How often can a team serve in doubles❓
Each team serves twice in succession before the opposing team gets a chance to serve.
Is there a specific sequence for changing sides during a match❓
Yes, sides are changed after each set, with the serving team deciding who serves first on the new side.
What happens if a doubles team breaks the serving order❓
The opposing team scores a point if a doubles pair fails to follow the correct sequence of serves and returns.
How is scoring handled in a doubles match❓
The first team to reach 11 points wins a set, with a minimum two-point gap required for victory. Matches typically consist of 3 or 5 sets.
Doubles ping pong rules is the same like doubles table tennis ❓
Yes, doubles ping pong rules are the same as doubles table tennis rules. “Ping pong” is simply a more informal term for table tennis, but the rules for doubles play remain identical in both contexts.
The serve in tennis is one of the most complex technical fundamentals, which makes this sport one of the most complicated.
In this article, you will also learn about the different types of serves (flat, slice, and kick). We discuss the basic rules for serving in tennis and the most important tennis strokes.
Rules On Serving in Tennis
In tennis, a player serves the ball to start each game. The server must stand behind the baseline, between the center mark and the sideline. If the server’s foot touches the baseline, it’s a “foot fault,” and the serve doesn’t count.
The ball must go over the net and land in the opposite service box. The serve is not good if it lands outside this area or doesn’t cross the net. But if the ball hits any part of the lines around the service box, it’s in.
Each player gets two chances to serve each point. If the first serve fails, they can try once more. But if both serves fail, it’s a “double fault,” and the other player gets the point.
Sometimes, the ball hits the net and lands in the right box. This is a “let,” and the serve is done over. If it happens on a second serve and the ball doesn’t land in the correct box, the server must try again. But the server loses the point if there’s no second chance.
To serve well in tennis, players can use different types of serves like flat, slice, or kick. Also, you can learn more about tennis tips and tricks.
Types of Tennis Shots
To play tennis well, you need to know several keystrokes. These include the backhand, the overhead smash, and the serve.
You’ll also learn different serving types like the flat, slice, and kick serve as you get better. Understanding these will help you react the right way during a game and improve your skills.
Let’s talk about the tennis serve and some important strokes. To be good at tennis, you should learn these moves.
There are simple strokes for beginners and harder ones for advanced players. The key is to know how to use them and to make your moves smooth and strong.
The main strokes in tennis are the backhand, the smash, and the serve. These are important for players of all levels, including pros, adults, and kids. To get better, you should practice these strokes a lot.
There are different kinds, like the flat serve, the slice serve, and the kick serve. Each one is used for a different situation in the game. We’ll look at these serves more closely later. We’ll also go over the basic rules of tennis.
Backhand in Tennis
The backhand is one of the tennis strokes that often gives players the most problems. Knowing how to hit a good backhand is crucial to improve and take your game to the next level.
According to the rules of the International Tennis Federation, there are two ways to technically perform this stroke: one-handed or two-handed. This is the first decision to make. The two-handed backhand is the most commonly used, as it is one of the safest and most powerful tennis strokes.
The biggest advantage over the one-handed backhand is that it offers greater stability and better control of movements. It is also much easier to assimilate and perfect.
Despite this differentiation, the technique of a basic backhand stroke consists of four steps: waiting position, preparation, stroke, and completion.
First, we prepare to receive the ball and hit the shot. We must have our feet apart, knees slightly bent, and body forward. Next, we take the racket in our right hand in our fist and hold it in our left hand.
Secondly, we start to bring the tennis racket backwards. At the same time, we bring our left leg back while turning our shoulders to the side of the stroke. Thirdly, we move the body forward. With the arm extended, we hit the ball while it is still rising after bouncing.
In this case, the body’s weight should be shifted forward, and the hand not holding the tennis racket backward to maintain balance.
Finally, the body should return to the ready position once the movement is complete.
Smash Stroke
This is one of the most popular tennis strokes because it is eye-catching. It is a shot mechanic very similar to the serve in tennis.
According to the rules, the aim is to hit a powerful shot that hits the ground and is as far away from the opponent’s chances of return as possible.
Unlike the serve in tennis, it is an attacking shot that is hit without a previous bounce and from any area of the court: baseline, mid-court or near the net. Normally, it is used to end the point or as a response to a lob, which is usually a defensive shot by the opponent.
As the rules dictate, the smash in tennis also has four phases into which the stroke is divided: waiting position, preparation and shoulder turn, impact and completion.
Firstly, the waiting position is performed with the feet facing the net and knees semi-flexed. The racket must be held with the dominant hand by the fist and the non-dominant hand by the neck of the racket.
Secondly, we bring our left foot forward, turn our shoulders and raise our left hand towards the ball to have a reference of the shot.
We then make the overhead impact. The arm must be straight towards the ball, and the body’s weight is on the left leg and forward. At the moment of impact, the racket remains in the power position, i.e. locked. Then the left arm starts the downward trajectory towards the stomach area.
Finally, we finish the movement with the body’s weight on the front leg, lifting the heel of the back foot.
Serve in Tennis
The serve in tennis is one of the most important strokes as it allows us to take the initiative during the point. However, it requires many technical aspects, such as a good ball release or a good coordination of the stroke.
According to the rules for serving in tennis, the serve is made from the baseline. The serve is only considered good if it enters the opponent’s service box with a cross court trajectory without touching the net.
However, on each point you have two chances to serve. If you step on the baseline or cross it before hitting, the serve in tennis is considered bad.
Correct technique has a greater influence. This makes it necessary to be clear about the main serving movements in tennis. First of all, using the right grip is essential.
The most recommended is the continental grip, in which we have to place the hand as if we were using a hammer. This grip allows you to make different types of serves or strokes, including the flat, slice or slice.
Steps for a Correct Tennis Serve
Starting position. Depending on the score, the serve in tennis is served from the right or left side, behind the baseline. You have to play the ball diagonally towards your opponent’s service court in both cases.
Position of the feet. This is the basic requirement for a safe support on the serve. You should place your back foot parallel to the baseline. Meanwhile, position the front foot pointing towards the right net post (for right-handed players) or the left net post (for left-handed players).
Grip. The way you hold the racket is also important. In general, you should choose the so-called “continental grip“, which consists of holding the racket with the index finger and thumb in a V-shape.
Racket position. According to the tennis serve rules, the racket should be pointing toward the frame you want to hit the ball into.
Throwing the ball. A precise throw is essential for the tennis serve. This shot must not be too high or too low. Try to throw the ball so it goes over your head and allows you to stretch your arm with the racket as far as possible.
Striking motion. The moment the ball reaches its highest point in the air is the signal for the stroke. To do this, you should raise your hand with the racket, throw your back a little backwards, bend your legs slightly and hit.
Rules for Serving in Tennis – Final Thoughts
Understanding and following the rules for serving in tennis is essential for players to improve their game. These rules cover where to stand, how to hold the racket, and where to aim the ball.
Players can gain an advantage and control the match by practicing and mastering different types of serves. In tennis, a good serve sets the stage for success and strategic play.
F.A.Q
How do you serve tennis rules❓
Stand behind the baseline between the center mark and the right sideline for the first serve. Hit the ball diagonally into the service box on the other side of the net, opposite the server’s position.
Where should I stand when serving in tennis❓
Stand behind the baseline between the center mark and the right sideline.
What happens if I step on the baseline when serving❓
Stepping on the baseline results in a foot fault, making the serve invalid.
How many chances do I have to serve in tennis❓
You have two chances to serve on each point.
What happens if both serves are invalid❓
If both serves are invalid, it’s called a “double fault,” and the opponent gets the point.
What is a let in tennis❓
A let occurs when the served ball touches the net and then enters the correct service box.
