(Introduction reprinted from the rules book)
Friend at Court is the book of rules and regulations under which tennis is played in the United States. It is recommended reading for players, parents, coaches, teachers, tournament directors, league officials, and anyone who wants a finer understanding of the game. This book contains the:
- ITF Rules of Tennis;
- USTA Regulations;
- The Code; and
- Glossary of terms commonly used in tennis.
A working knowledge of the ITF Rules of Tennis, The Code, and USTA Regulations is essential to playing the game the way it should be played.
The Rules of Tennis are determined by the International Tennis Federation, of which the USTA is a member. The USTA may submit proposals to amend the Rules, but it has no authority to change them. USTA Comments on the ITF Rules of Tennis clarify certain Rules and provide examples. USTA Comments are not part of the ITF Rules of Tennis, but they are considered binding authority and, therefore, enforceable in USTA sanctioned tournaments.
USTA Regulations control all play in all USTA sanctioned tournaments and sanctioned matches and include sections on:
- Setting up and conducting a tournament;
- Player responsibilities and conduct;
- Officials and officiating;
- Ranking regulations.
FAC Comments are interspersed throughout the Regulations to promote knowledge and understanding. Essentially, there is no difference between USTA Comments on the ITF Rules of Tennis and FAC Comments on regulations other than the nature of the material covered.
The Regulations specifically state that The Code shall apply to all matches except to the extent to which an official assumes some of the players’ responsibilities. The Code contains the “unwritten” rules under which tennis is played.
To download the rule book, either click on the cover image above, or visit the USTA website by CLICKING HERE.