Tennis Rules Spectators Need to Know at a Match

In the 1870s, jeu de paume was created in England which is now known as the modern and popular game of tennis. This major sport has been followed by fans decade after decade.

Like other major sporting events, tennis fans purchase tickets to watch and celebrate their favorite player live. However, tennis vastly differs from other sporting events because of the tennis rules for spectators.

Keep reading to learn more.

Tennis Rules: The “Unwritten” One

When it comes to tennis rules for a spectator to follow, staying quiet is the most obvious one. Whether you watch the match live or on television, you’ve heard the term, “quiet, please.”

Silence among spectators is an unwritten rule, although well established as an unspoken custom. Quiet during a match is taken seriously by the community of tennis players and fans around the world.

The History Behind the Tradition

Aristocrats were the first spectators of tennis matches. Higher-ups like Kings and nobles would watch the sport for entertainment and honor. As a noble sport, it required noble etiquette.

A quiet tennis match was expected because spectators were in the presence of the King who no one could speak around without permission.

The tradition stuck over time as the unspoken etiquette for tennis spectators to follow. Because it isn’t typical in other major sporting events, you’ll likely find one or two people in tennis crowds talking or making noise.

Going to a Match? Here’s What to Know

If you are planning to attend a tennis match, it’s important to follow the unwritten rule and etiquette to avoid problems and general embarrassment.

During a point, you should stay quiet to prevent distracting either player. This allows them to equally focus on their game.

An umpire will help control a crowd that might get rowdy which is why the, “quiet please” phrase is often heard. A player might pause before their serve to help encourage silence from the crowd.

This etiquette is especially important to follow at big matches like Wimbledon, a tournament that will take place in late June this year. You can find more info here about booking tickets.

Is Cheering Ever Allowed?

If you are an avid tennis fan watching a live match, it might seem difficult to stay quiet when your favorite player scores a point or is winning. Luckily, you don’t have to.

Although remaining quiet during play is typical, you can cheer and clap for a player after a point. Be sure not to do this until the point is over. Make sure the other player can’t return a fair ball before beginning to celebrate.

Don’t Get Served: Stay Quiet During a Tennis Match

Tennis rules like the unwritten one go back to earlier times when Kings and Queens would attend matches for honor. Just because it is an old rule doesn’t mean it’s not an important one.

If you attend a tennis match, stay respectful and compliant with traditions to ensure a quality environment for all spectators and the players. Stay quiet during the play and only cheer after a point is achieved.

Don’t get served out of the tennis match and don’t forget to come back for more articles like this!