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ITF Duties and Procedures for Officials

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

I ITF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES FOR OFFICIALS

A APPLICABILITY 1
B ITF SUPERVISOR/REFEREE 1
C CHIEF UMPIRE 4
D CHAIR UMPIRE 5
E REVIEW OFFICIAL 6
F LINE UMPIRE 7

II ITF PROCEDURES FOR OFFICALS

A APPLICABILITY 8
B QUESTIONS OF TENNIS LAW 8
C QUESTIONS OF FACT 8
D TOURNAMENT/MATCH COMMENCEMENT 11
E PLAYERS’ REST, MEDICAL AND TOILET BREAK 11
F SUSPENSION AND POSTPONEMENT 15
G ANNOUNCING 16
H CALLS 19
I HAND SIGNALS 20
J ITF SCORECARD / ITF HAND-HELD SCORING DEVICE 21
K UMPIRES’ RESPONSIBILITIES 22
L UMPIRING WITH A FULL COMPLEMENT OF LINE UMPIRES 22
M UMPIRING WITH LESS THAN A FULL COMPLEMENT
OF LINE UMPIRES 22
N UMPIRING WITHOUT LINE UMPIRES 23
O PROCEDURES FOR MATCHES PLAYED WITHOUT
A CHAIR UMPIRE 23
P HINDRANCE 23
Q CONTINUOUS PLAY/DELAY OF GAME 24
R PLAYER MISCONDUCT ON COURT 25
S CODE VIOLATIONS NOT WITNESSED BY THE CHAIR UMPIRE 25
T IMMEDIATE DEFAULT 25
U CODE OF CONDUCT FOR OFFICIALS 26

III INTERPRETATIONS 30

IV APPENDICES
A ITF OFFICIATING PORTAL 31
B ITF SCORECARD 32
C ITF MEDICAL TIME-OUT PROCEDURES 33
D ITF POSITIONS OF LINE UMPIRES 34
E PROCEDURES FOR MATCHES PLAYED WITHOUT A
CHAIR UMPIRE 37

References to the International Tennis Federation or ITF shall hereafter mean ITF Limited.
 I ITF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES FOR OFFICIALS

A APPLICABILITY
This Article is applicable to all events sanctioned or recognised by the ITF. Such
applicability shall not affect the right of ITF sanctioned or recognised events to
promulgate and enforce their own special regulations insofar as they are consistent
with the principles and provisions of this Article I.

B ITF SUPERVISOR/REFEREE
The duties and responsibilities are described for an ITF Supervisor/Referee. In some
cases this position is carried out by one approved official only. In other cases a
(local) Referee with the support of the Chief Umpire handles all pre-tournament
planning and assumes all duties and responsibilities for this, while the ITF
Supervisor after his/her arrival will be in charge of all on-site activities, with the
assistance of the Referee. In Davis Cup, Fed Cup and other team events the Referee
is also the ITF Supervisor.

The ITF Supervisor/Referee shall:

1 Act as final on-site authority for the interpretation of the applicable Tournament
Rules and Regulations, Code of Conduct, Rules of Tennis and the Duties and
Procedures for Officials as to all matters arising that require immediate
resolution at the tournament site.
2 Prior to the event conduct such training sessions and meetings as may be
necessary to familiarise thoroughly all officials with all applicable Rules and
Procedures.
3 Appoint a Chief Umpire and ensure that his/her duties and responsibilities are
performed properly.
4 Approve the assignment of all Chair Umpires and Line Umpires for matches.
5 Remove a Chair Umpire and/or remove, rotate or replace any Line Umpire or
Net Umpire whenever he/she decides it is necessary to improve the officiating of
a match.
6 Evaluate the performance of all Chair Umpires.
7 Ensure that each court, net, netposts and singles sticks conform to the
specifications in the Rules of Tennis and that each court is equipped as follows:
a Chair Umpire’s Chair
• The Chair Umpire’s Chair is recommended to be a minimum of six (6)
feet (1.82 metres) and a maximum of eight (8) feet (2.44 metres) in
height;
• The Chair Umpire’s Chair shall be centred along an extension of the net
approximately three (3) feet (0.9 metres) from the net post;
• If a microphone is to be used it must have an “on-off” switch, it must be
easily adjustable and not handheld. There shall be no public broadcast
microphones on the Umpire’s Chair or in its general vicinity (between the
baselines);
• For outdoor tournaments there should be a sunscreen available.

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 b Line Umpires’ Chairs
• Chairs for serviceline and baseline Umpires shall be located on an
extension of their respective lines along the side fence. They shall not be
elevated above the surface of the court and should be positioned no less
than twelve (12) feet (3.66 metres) from the side of the court;
• Chairs for centre serviceline and sideline Umpires should be located in the
corners at the back of the court, unless otherwise directed;
• Whenever the sun is a factor, Line Umpires’ chairs shall be positioned so
that the Line Umpires are not facing the sun;
• When the sun is not a factor, Line Umpires’ chairs shall be positioned on
the opposite side of the court from the Chair Umpire.
c Net Device or Net Umpire’s Chair
• A Net Device or a chair for the Net Umpire which shall be located at the
net post on the opposite side from the Chair Umpire.
d Players’ Chairs
• Chairs for the players shall be located on each side of the Chair Umpire.
e On-Court Service
• Water, other drinks, cups, towels and sawdust shall be available to the
players during each match.
f Measuring device
• A measuring stick, tape measure or other measuring device shall be
available for the measuring of the net height and location of the singles
sticks.
g Handheld Device/PDA or Scorecard, Stopwatch
• A Handheld Device/PDA or ITF Scorecard and a Stopwatch shall be
available to the Chair Umpire of each match.
8 Ensure that the back fence, banners and back walls are not painted in or
otherwise have any white, yellow or other light colour that can interfere with the
vision of the players.
9 Determine and notify competitors of the conditions of play (i.e. make of ball,
number of balls/ball changes, type of surface, number of sets, tie-
break/advantage sets, match tie-break and other items of interest), prior to the
commencement of the tournament.
10 Designate in a highly visible place in a general player’s area an Official Bulletin
Board and notify all players of its designation and location. The daily Order of
Play shall be posted on the Official Bulletin Board as soon as issued.
It is the responsibility of all players to ascertain their schedules from the ITF
Supervisor/Referee for each day’s play.
11 Designate a visible timepiece at a fixed location as the Official Clock of the
tournament and notify all players of its designation and location. Wrist, hand or
pocket watches are not acceptable, unless otherwise directed.
12 Prior to making the draws obtain the Wild Cards from the Tournament
Director/Committee. Consult with the Tournament Director/Committee and a
Player Representative to determine:
• the final entry list;
• the ranking list to be used for seeding;
• any other relevant information for making the draw.

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13 Make the draws for the qualifying and main competitions.
14 Post all sign-in documents (Qualifying, Main Draws, Alternates and Lucky
Losers) in the ITF Supervisor/Referee’s office with appropriate notices on the
Official Bulletin Board.
15 Prepare the daily Order of Play with the matches scheduled on specific courts to
follow each other consecutively without delay or, where appropriate, with the
matches scheduled and clearly designated as “not before” a certain time. Once
the Order of Play has been released it should not be changed.
a Prior Tournament
Prior to scheduling matches for the first day of play contact the Supervisor(s)
/Referee(s) of the preceding week’s tournaments to determine to what extent
players still competing therein may have difficulties in arriving for play. To
the extent possible and, providing it does not jeopardise the fairness of
scheduling and the completion of the tournament, the ITF Supervisor/Referee
should schedule matches so that players with reasonable difficulties can be
reasonably accommodated.
b Qualifying
The qualifying event for singles should be scheduled for completion on the
day before the commencement of play in the Main Draw, unless otherwise
approved by the ITF. Matches should be scheduled so that a player will not
be required to play more than two singles qualifying matches in the same day,
except when weather or unavoidable circumstances cause schedule
disruption.
Whenever more than one round of qualifying must be played in one day, the
order of play should conform to the sections of the draw.
c Main Draws
Players shall not be scheduled for more than one singles and one doubles
match per day, unless weather or other unavoidable circumstances have
caused schedule disruptions. A player’s singles match on any particular day
shall be scheduled before his/her doubles matches unless otherwise directed
by the ITF Supervisor/Referee.
16 Ensure that clay and other loose surface courts are swept and lines cleaned before
the start of all matches.
17 Decide if a court is fit for play.
18 Designate a specific area from which matches shall be called in accordance with
the Order of Play using all available and reasonable means. Players must be
ready to play when their matches are called. In unusual cases the ITF
Supervisor/Referee shall determine when a match is to be called or when a match
was in fact called.
19 Decide if to allow an extended warm-up period (normally ten (10) minutes) if
players have had no possibility to practice before the start of matches due to bad
weather.
20 Decide if a match should be moved to another court.
If bad weather or other unavoidable circumstances cause disruption or
suspension of a match in progress, then, if necessary to eliminate the possibility
of a player having to play two singles matches in one day, or, if necessary to

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 complete the event, move a match to another court, indoors or outdoors,
regardless of surface.
In all other cases, a match shall not be moved after it has officially started, i.e.
the first serve of the first point has been struck, except with the agreement of the
players.
Whenever possible a change of courts should be made at the end of a set or after
an even number of games in the set in progress.
21 Decide when play should be postponed because of weather conditions,
inadequate light or other conditions. If play is postponed on account of darkness,
such postponement should be made at the end of a set or after an even number of
games in the set in progress.
22 In tournaments where applicable, be responsible for investigating Code of
Conduct Violations, issuing fines and ensuring delivery whenever possible to
every player cited for an on-site offence a copy of the relevant Code of Conduct
Form.
23 Be present on-site at all times during the play of matches in the tournament.
24 The ITF Supervisor/Referee shall not be a Chair Umpire in that event.
25 All ITF Supervisors/Referees at Davis Cup, Fed Cup and ITF Pro Circuit events
must use a metal tape measure for measuring the court, a personal computer
capable to run ITF software on-site and have a reliable personal email account.
26 All ITF Supervisors/Referees at ITF Pro Circuit events must be completely
familiar with the live-scoring hand-held devices and the correct use thereof.

C CHIEF UMPIRE
The Chief Umpire shall:
1 Recruit a sufficient number of competent officials for the tournament.
2 Conduct the necessary pre-tournament training of officials including review of
the Rules of Tennis, the appropriate Tournament Rules and Regulations, Code of
Conduct and the Duties and Procedures for Officials.
3 Prepare a list of Officials which shall include mailing address and ITF/national
certifications, if any, of all officials used during the tournament. A copy of such
list shall be delivered to the ITF Supervisor/Referee and, if required, to ITF
Officiating.
4 Schedule the on-court assignments of officials for each day of the tournament,
subject to the approval of the ITF Supervisor/Referee.
5 Conduct meetings with all on-court officials to specify court assignments and the
procedures to be used for making calls, hand signals, rotations and other
responsibilities. For further details of Line Umpires’ responsibilities please refer
to the ITF Line Umpire Guide.
6 Evaluate the performance of all on-court officials.
7 Be present on-site at all times during play.
8 The Chief Umpire shall not be a Chair Umpire or Line Umpire in that event,
unless approved by the ITF Supervisor/Referee.
9 Assist the ITF Supervisor/Referee in the performance of his/her duties.
10 All Chief Umpires at ITF Pro Circuit events must be completely familiar with the live-
scoring hand-held devices and the correct use thereof.

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D CHAIR UMPIRE
A Chair Umpire shall:
1 Be completely familiar with all aspects of the Rules of Tennis, the appropriate
Tournament Rules and Regulations, Code of Conduct and the Duties and
Procedures for Officials. His/her duties shall be carried out in accordance with
ITF procedures.
2 Dress uniformly with other Chair Umpires as directed by the ITF Supervisor/
Referee.
3 Find out the correct pronunciation of the players’ names.
4 Be on court prior to the arrival of the players.
5 Immediately prior to the match meet with the players to:
a State any relevant information for the players;
b Toss a coin in the presence of both players/teams to determine choice of serve
and side at the beginning of the match prior to the warm-up. If play is
suspended before the match begins, the players may choose again, the result
of the toss stands;
c Determine if each player is dressed in accordance with the dress provisions of
the Code of Conduct. Corrective action taking more than fifteen (15) minutes
may result in a default. An appropriate re-warm-up may be authorised.
6 Have a hand held stopwatch which shall be used to time the warm-up (normally
five (5) minutes), the twenty (20) seconds between points, the ninety (90)
seconds during changeovers and the one hundred and twenty (120) seconds
permitted during set breaks. It shall also be used for all other specific time
periods designated under the provisions of any Rule or Regulation.
7 Be responsible for having the appropriate number of balls on court for the match,
including used replacement balls. The cans with new balls should be opened just
before the match/ball change.
8 Determine all Questions of Fact arising during the match (including calling the
lines if there are no Line Umpires).
9 Ensure that the Rules are observed by the players and all on-court officials.
10 Remove, rotate or replace any Line Umpire or Net Umpire whenever he/she
decides it will improve the officiating of the match.
11 Make the first determination on all Questions of Law arising during the match,
subject to the right of a player to appeal to the ITF Supervisor/Referee.
12 Announce the score after each point in accordance with ITF procedures.
13 Repeat the calls of a Line Umpire or Net Umpire only if the call is made in a
weak voice or if there is a close call that must be confirmed to remove any doubt
from the minds of the players.
14 Mark an ITF Scorecard during the match in accordance with the approved ITF
procedures (see page 21 and Appendix B). All Chair Umpires at ITF Pro Circuit
events must be completely familiar with the live-scoring hand-held devices and ensure
the correct use thereof.
15 Overrule a Line Umpire only in the case of a clear mistake by the Line Umpire
and only if the overrule is made promptly after the mistake is made. All overrules
must be made in accordance with the approved ITF procedures (see page 9).
Clear foot faults, not called by a Line Umpire, shall be called by the Chair
Umpire consistent with the procedures for handling clear mistakes.

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16 Be responsible for any ball mark inspection. There shall be no ball mark
inspections except on clay courts (see Ball Mark Inspection Procedures, page 9).
17 Exercise his/her best efforts to control the crowd. Whenever the spectators are
disturbing the progress of the match, the Chair Umpire should address them
respectfully and request their cooperation.
18 Be responsible for the direction of the ball-kids during the match so that they
assist, but do not disturb, the players.
19 Be responsible for all changes of balls and for determining if a ball is fit for play.
Ensure that the correct numbers of balls are in play. Lost balls should be replaced
as soon as it is practical. If a ball needs to be replaced, a new ball shall be used as
a replacement during the warm-up or within two (2) games (before the first point
has started in the third game) after a change of ball; otherwise a used ball of like
wear shall be supplied.
The appropriate number of ball containers should be opened and inspected
sufficiently in advance of each ball change so as to avoid any delay in the match.
20 Determine if a court continues to be fit for play. If a change in condition occurs
during a match that the Chair Umpire considers sufficient to make the court unfit
for play or if weather or other conditions require suspension of play, he/she
should suspend play and report the same to the ITF Supervisor/Referee. During
the suspension and, until a match is postponed, the Chair Umpire must ensure
that he/she and all other on-court officials are ready to resume the match.
If suspension is due to darkness it should be at the end of a set or after an even
number of games in the set in progress.
Upon suspension or any postponement by the ITF Supervisor/Referee, the Chair
Umpire shall record the time, point, game and set score, the name of the server,
the side on which each player was situated and shall collect all balls in use for
the match.
21 At the conclusion of a match make a full report to the ITF Supervisor/Referee
concerning all actions taken under the Code of Conduct during the match.

E REVIEW OFFICIAL
A Review Official shall:
1 Be completely familiar with all aspects of the Rules of Tennis, and in particular
with the Electronic Review Procedures, the appropriate Tournament Rules and
Regulations and the Duties and Procedures for Officials. His/her duties shall be
carried out in accordance with ITF procedures.
2 Dress uniformly with other Review Officials as directed by the ITF
Supervisor/Referee.
3 Be in the Electronic Review Booth at least thirty (30) minutes prior to the start
of play for the first match of the day or session on the court he/she has been
assigned on, and 10 minutes before the start of later matches.
4 Check the available means of communication with the Chair Umpire, ITF
Supervisor/Referee, Screen Operator and Television.
5 Confirm with the Virtual Reality Operator that the system is set for the
appropriate event, i.e. singles or doubles, scoring system in use, etc.
6 During the warm-up, view at least one (1) Test Review which shall not be
shown to Television or on the screen.

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7 Confirm with the System and Virtual Reality Operators that all systems are fully
operational prior to the start of the match.
8 Be responsible for identifying each potential review ball impact.
9 Determine that the requested ball impact is available for review.
10 Manage the process of playing the review or releasing it to Television.
11 Be responsible for monitoring the status of the system.
12 In case of a system malfunction, immediately notify the Chair Umpire and the
ITF Supervisor/Referee and, when the system is back working again and has
been tested, immediately inform the same.
13 Notify the Chair Umpire that the original call shall stand when the Review
Official cannot retrieve the data to review the call.
14 In the event the ball impact shown on the screen does not correspond to the text
graphic shown on the screen, inform the Chair Umpire of the correct outcome of
the challenge and If possible display the corrected ball impact or text graphic on
the screen.
15 Inform the Chair Umpire immediately if the Review Official’s monitor is
functioning properly but all available in-stadium screens are malfunctioning.
16 Keep record of the number of successful and unsuccessful challenges for each
player/team and be able to confirm the number of unsuccessful challenges
remaining to the Chair Umpire, the ITF Supervisor/Referee or the Screen
Operator at any time.
17 Act as the final authority on the number of unsuccessful challenges remaining
for each player/team. Verify with the Chair Umpire when a player/team has one
(1) and no (0) challenges remaining.
18 Before each set and match tie-break ensure that the number of challenges is set
to three (3).
F LINE UMPIRE
A Line Umpire shall:
1 Carry out his/her duties in accordance with the approved procedures of the ITF.
For more details please refer to the ITF Line Umpire Guide.
2 Dress uniformly with other Line Umpires as prescribed by the ITF
Supervisor/Referee. Line Umpires shall not wear clothing that is white, yellow or
other light colours that can interfere with the vision of the players.
3 Be on time for all assignments.
4 Take a position which gives the best view of his/her assigned line.
5 Call all balls on his/her assigned line only and not give opinions on calls on other
lines.
6 Call foot faults when assigned to a base, side or centre serviceline.
7 Give a prompt unsighted signal when not able to make a call.
8 Correct a wrong call immediately.
9 Never call a ball “Out/Fault” until it actually lands out.
10 Remain silent if the Chair Umpire overrules a call. Refer all player enquiries to
the Chair Umpire.
11 Report immediately to the Chair Umpire if he/she witnesses a Code Violation not
witnessed by the Chair Umpire.
12 Go with a player who takes a toilet or change of attire break to ensure the player
does not use the break for any other purpose. If a violation of the procedure takes

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 place, the Line Umpire shall tell the player that he/she is breaking the rules and
report this to the Chair Umpire.
13 Not catch balls or hold towels for players.
14 Not converse with spectators.
15 Never applaud players.
16 Not leave the court without the permission of the Chair Umpire.

II ITF PROCEDURES FOR OFFICIALS

A APPLICABILITY
This Article is applicable to all events sanctioned or recognised by the ITF. Such
applicability shall not affect the right of ITF sanctioned or recognised events to
promulgate and enforce their own special regulations insofar as they are consistent
with the principles and provisions of this Article II. With respect to all team
competitions, the name of the nation should be used in implementing the procedures
herein.

B QUESTIONS OF TENNIS LAW

A question of Tennis Law is defined as an issue relating to the construction and
application of specified facts of the Rules of Tennis, the Tournament Rules and
Regulations and the Code of Conduct. During a match, the Chair Umpire shall first
determine Questions of Tennis Law. If the Chair Umpire is uncertain, or if a player
appeals his/her determination, then the decision shall be made by the ITF
Supervisor/Referee. This decision shall be final and non-appealable.
1 Player Appeal
Players shall have the right to appeal against any ruling of Tennis Law in
accordance with the procedures hereinafter set forth.
When a player is of the opinion that a ruling by the Chair Umpire on a matter of
Tennis Law is incorrect, he/she may appeal the ruling by notification to the Chair
Umpire in a professional and non-abusive manner. Thereupon, the Chair Umpire
shall stop play, turn off all the microphones in the area of the Chair and
immediately call for the ITF Supervisor/Referee. Upon his/her arrival, the Chair
Umpire shall state all the facts of the incident and the ITF Supervisor/Referee
shall be bound by the facts as so determined and stated. Then the Chair Umpire
shall state his/her ruling on the applicable Tennis Law and the player shall state
his/her position with respect to such ruling. The ITF Supervisor/Referee shall
review briefly the applicable Rules with the player and the Chair Umpire and
either affirm or reverse the ruling. Thereafter, play shall be resumed upon the
statement by the ITF Supervisor/Referee “Let’s Play” and the players must
proceed to commence play. Every effort should be made to determine such
appeal as quickly as possible and upon the statement “Let’s Play” the twenty (20)
second clock shall commence.

C QUESTIONS OF FACT
A Question of Fact is defined as an issue relating to what actually occurred during a
specific instance. Questions of Fact arising during a match shall be determined by

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the on-court officials for that match and such determinations are binding on the
players and ITF Supervisor/ Referee.
A player may request verification by the Chair Umpire of a call or other
determination of fact on a point-ending call made by an on-court official. The
request, verification and resumption of play must all be completed within the twenty
(20) seconds allowed between points, unless the Chair Umpire determines that an
extension is necessary. If an extension is granted, it shall be concluded with the
announcement “Let’s Play”.
1 Player Appeal
A player may never appeal a determination on a Question of Fact to the ITF
Supervisor/Referee.
2 Overrule
The Chair Umpire may overrule a Line Umpire only in the case of a clear
mistake by the Line Umpire and only if the overrule is made promptly after the
mistake is made.
a Clear Mistake
It is difficult to define a Clear Mistake any more precisely. As a matter of
practice the Chair Umpire must be in a position to make a determination that
a call was wrong beyond any reasonable doubt. Chair Umpires should never
make an overrule on a ball that is a close call. To overrule a ball determined
“Good” by a Line Umpire, the Chair Umpire must have been able to see a
space between the ball and the line. To overrule an “Out” or “Fault” call by a
Line Umpire, the Chair Umpire must have seen the ball land on or inside the
line.
Clear foot faults not called by a Line Umpire shall be called by the Chair
Umpire consistent with the procedures for handling clear mistakes.
b Promptly
The Rules of Tennis requires in addition to a Clear Mistake that the Chair
Umpire must overrule promptly (i.e., immediately after the Line Umpire
makes the Clear Mistake). The overrule call must be made almost
simultaneously with the Clear Mistake of the Line Umpire.
A Chair Umpire may never make an overrule as a result of a protest or appeal
by a player.
A Line Umpire may never change a call as a result of a protest or appeal by a
player.
3 Ball Mark Inspection Procedures
a Ball mark inspections can only be made on clay courts.
b A ball mark inspection requested by a player (team) shall be allowed only if
the Chair Umpire cannot determine the call with certainty from his/her chair
on either a point-ending shot or when a player (team) stops playing the point
during a rally (returns are permitted but then the player must immediately
stop).
c When the Chair Umpire has decided to make a ball mark inspection, he/she
should go down from the chair and make the inspection himself. If he/she
does not know where the mark is, he/she can ask the Line Umpire for help in
locating the mark, but then the Chair Umpire shall inspect it.

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 d The original call or overrule will always stand if the Line Umpire and Chair
Umpire cannot determine the location of the mark or if the mark is
unreadable.
e Once the Chair Umpire has identified and ruled on a ball mark, this decision
is final and not appealable.
f In clay court tennis the Chair Umpire should not be too quick to announce the
score unless absolutely certain of the call. If in doubt, wait before calling the
score to determine whether a ball mark inspection is necessary.
g In doubles the appealing player must make his/her appeal in such a way that
either play stops or the Chair Umpire stops play. If an appeal is made to the
Chair Umpire then he/she must first determine that the correct appeal
procedure was followed. If it was not correct or if it was late, then the Chair
Umpire may determine that the opposing team was deliberately hindered.
h If a player erases the ball mark before the Chair Umpire has made a final
decision, he/she concedes the call.
i A player may not cross the net to check a ball mark without being subject to
the Unsportsmanlike provision of the Code of Conduct.
4 Electronic Review Procedures
At tournaments where an Electronic Review System is used, the following
procedures should be followed for matches on courts where it is used.
a A request for an Electronic Review of a line call or overrule by a player
(team) shall be allowed only on either a point-ending shot or when a player
(team) stops playing the point during a rally (returns are permitted but then
the player must immediately stop).
b The Chair Umpire should decide to use the Electronic Review when there is
doubt about the accuracy of the line call or overrule. However, the Chair
Umpire may refuse the Electronic Review if he/she believes that the player is
making an unreasonable request or that it was not made in a timely manner.
c In doubles the appealing player must make his/her appeal in such a way that
either play stops or the Chair Umpire stops play. If an appeal is made to the
Chair Umpire then he/she must first determine that the correct appeal
procedure was followed. If it was not correct or if it was late, then the Chair
Umpire may determine that the opposing team was deliberately hindered, in
which case the appealing team loses the point.
d The original call or overrule will always stand if the Electronic Review is
unable, for whatever reason, to make a decision on that line call or overrule.
e The Chair Umpire’s final decision will be the outcome of the Electronic
Review and is not appealable. If a manual choice is required for the system
to review a particular ball impact, a review official approved by the ITF
Supervisor/Referee shall decide which ball impact is reviewed.
f Each player (team) is allowed three (3) unsuccessful appeals per set, plus one
(1) additional appeal in the tie-break. For matches with advantage sets,
players (teams) will start again with a maximum of three (3) unsuccessful
appeals at 6 games all and every 12 games thereafter. For matches with match
tie-break, the match tie-break counts as a new set and each player (team)
starts with three (3) appeals. Players (teams) will have an unlimited number
of successful appeals.

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D TOURNAMENT/MATCH COMMENCEMENT
A tournament officially starts when the first serve of the first match is struck. A
match officially starts when the first serve is struck.

E PLAYERS’ REST, MEDICAL AND TOILET BREAK

1 Between Tournaments
If the ITF Supervisor/Referee receives notice from a player of the date and time
of his/her last match played in a previous week’s ITF sanctioned or recognised
event, then the ITF Supervisor/Referee shall whenever possible give the player
one day’s full rest between such match and the player’s first match in the
succeeding tournament, unless weather or unavoidable circumstances have
caused schedule disruption or unless the player was a finalist in a Monday or
other delayed final.
2 Between Qualifying and Main Draw
Other than in exceptional circumstances, no player shall be required to play
his/her first round match in the singles main draw until at least twelve (12) hours
after the completion of his/her final qualifying match. If a player plays two
singles qualifying matches in one day, he/she should not be scheduled on the
following day for his/her first round singles main draw match, unless such player
is accepted into the tournament as a Lucky Loser.
3 Between Matches
Except when weather or other unavoidable circumstances cause schedule
disruption, players shall be scheduled for a maximum of one singles match and
one doubles match per day, which shall not be scheduled less than twelve (12)
hours after the completion of the last match of such player on the preceding day
or round. Whenever it is necessary to schedule more than one match in the same
day, such player shall, unless he/she is in singles and doubles finals to be played
consecutively, be given the following minimum rest periods:
• If played less than 1 hour - ½ hour rest
• If played between 1 and 1½ hour - 1 hour rest
• If played more than 1½ hour - 1½ hours rest

4 Medical
a. Medical Conditions
A medical condition is a medical illness or a musculoskeletal injury that
warrants medical evaluation and/or medical treatment by the
Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer (also known as the Primary Health Care
Provider) during the warm-up or the match.

• Treatable Medical Conditions

o Acute medical condition: the sudden development of a medical illness
or musculoskeletal injury during the warm-up or the match that
requires immediate medical attention.
o Non-acute medical condition: a medical illness or musculoskeletal
injury that develops or is aggravated during the warm-up or the match
and requires medical attention at the changeover or set break.

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 • Non-Treatable Medical Conditions
o Any medical condition that cannot be treated appropriately, or that
will not be improved by available medical treatment within the time
allowed.
o Any medical condition (inclusive of symptoms) that has not
developed or has not been aggravated during the warm-up or the
match.
o General player fatigue.
o Any medical condition requiring injections, intravenous infusions or
oxygen, except for diabetes, for which prior medical certification has
been obtained, and for which subcutaneous injections of insulin may
be administered.

b. Medical Evaluation
During the warm-up or the match, the player may request through the Chair
Umpire for the Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer to evaluate him/her during
the next change over or set break. Only in the case that a player develops an
acute medical condition that necessitates an immediate stop in play may the
player request through the Chair Umpire for the Physiotherapist/Athletic
Trainer to evaluate him/her immediately.

The purpose of the medical evaluation is to determine if the player has

developed a treatable medical condition and, if so, to determine when medical
treatment is warranted. Such evaluation should be performed within a
reasonable length of time, balancing player safety on the one hand, and
continuous play on the other. At the discretion of the
Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer, such evaluation may be performed in
conjunction with the Tournament Doctor, and may be performed off-court. *

If the Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer determines that the player has a non-

treatable medical condition, then the player will be advised that no medical
treatment will be allowed.

c. Medical Time-Out
A Medical Time-Out is allowed by the ITF Supervisor/Referee or Chair
Umpire when the Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer has evaluated the player
and has determined that additional time for medical treatment is required.
The Medical Time-Out takes place during a change over or set break, unless
the Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer determines that the player has developed
an acute medical condition that requires immediate medical treatment.

The Medical Time-Out begins when the Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer is

ready to start treatment. At the discretion of the Physiotherapist/Athletic
Trainer, treatment during a Medical Time-Out may take place off-court, and
may proceed in conjunction with the Tournament Doctor. *

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The Medical Time-Out is limited to three (3) minutes of treatment. However,
at professional events with prize money of $25,000 or less, the ITF
Supervisor/Referee may extend the time allowed for treatment if necessary.

A player is allowed one (1) Medical Time-Out for each distinct treatable
medical condition. All clinical manifestations of heat illness shall be
considered as one (1) treatable medical condition. All treatable
musculoskeletal injuries that manifest as part of a kinetic chain continuum
shall be considered as one (1) treatable medical condition.

Muscle Cramping: A player may receive treatment for muscle cramping only
during the time allotted for change of ends and/or set breaks. Players may not
receive a Medical Time-Out for muscle cramping.
In cases where there is doubt about whether the player suffers from an acute
medical condition, non-acute medical condition inclusive of muscle
cramping, or non-treatable medical condition, the decision of the
Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer, in conjunction with the Tournament Doctor,
if appropriate, is final. If the Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer believes that the
player has heat illness, and if muscle cramping is one of the manifestations of
heat illness, then the muscle cramping may only be treated as part of the
recommended treatment by the Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer for the heat
illness condition.

Note:
A player who has stopped play by claiming an acute medical condition, but is
determined by the Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer and/or Tournament
Doctor to have muscle cramping shall be ordered by the Chair Umpire to
resume play immediately.
If the player cannot continue playing due to severe muscle cramping, as
determined by the Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer and/or Tournament
Doctor, he/she may forfeit the point(s)/game(s) needed to get to a change of
ends or set-break in order to receive treatment. There may be a total of two
(2) full change of ends treatments for muscle cramping in a match, not
necessarily consecutive.
If it is determined by the Chair Umpire or ITF Supervisor/Referee that
gamesmanship was involved, then a Code Violation for Unsportsmanlike
Conduct could be issued.

A total of two (2) consecutive Medical Time-Outs may be allowed by the ITF
Supervisor/Referee or Chair Umpire for the special circumstance in which the
Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer determines that the player has developed at
least two (2) distinct acute and treatable medical conditions. This may
include: a medical illness in conjunction with a musculoskeletal injury; two
or more acute and distinct musculoskeletal injuries. In such cases, the
Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer will perform a medical evaluation for the
two or more treatable medical conditions during a single evaluation, and may
then determine that two consecutive Medical Time-Outs are required.

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d. Medical Treatment
A player may receive on-court medical treatment and/or supplies from the
Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer and/or Tournament Doctor during any
changeover or set break. As a guideline, such medical treatment should be
limited to two (2) changeovers/set breaks for each treatable medical
condition, before or after a Medical Time-Out, and need not be consecutive.
Players may not receive medical treatment for non-treatable medical
conditions.

e. Penalty
After completion of a Medical Time-Out or medical treatment, any delay in
resumption of play shall be penalized by Code Violations for Delay of Game.
Any player abuse of this Medical Rule will be subject to penalty in
accordance with the Unsportsmanlike Conduct section of the Code of
Conduct.

f. Bleeding
If a player is bleeding, the Chair Umpire must stop play as soon as possible,
and the Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer must be called to the court by the
Chair Umpire for evaluation and treatment. The Physiotherapist/Athletic
Trainer, in conjunction with the Tournament Doctor if appropriate, will
evaluate the source of the bleeding, and will request a Medical Time-Out for
treatment if necessary.
If requested by the Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer and/or Tournament
Doctor, the ITF Supervisor/Referee or Chair Umpire may allow up to a total
of five (5) minutes to assure control of the bleeding.
If blood has spilled onto the court or its immediate vicinity, play must not
resume until the blood spill has been cleaned appropriately.

g. Vomiting
If a player is vomiting, the Chair Umpire must stop play if vomiting has
spilled onto the court, or if the player requests medical evaluation. If the
player requests medical evaluation, then the Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer
must determine if the player has a treatable medical condition, and if so,
whether the medical condition is acute or non-acute.
If vomiting has spilled onto the court, play must not resume until the vomit
spill has been cleaned appropriately.

h. Physical Incapacity
During a match, if there is an emergency medical condition and the player
involved is unable to make a request for a Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer,
the Chair Umpire shall immediately call for the Physiotherapist/Athletic
Trainer and Tournament Doctor to assist the player.

Either before or during a match, if a player is considered unable physically to

compete, the Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer and/or Tournament Doctor
should inform the ITF Supervisor/Referee and recommend that the player is

14
 ruled unable to compete in the match to be played, or retired from the match
in progress.

The ITF Supervisor/Referee shall use great discretion before taking this
action and should base the decision on the best interests of professional
tennis, as well as taking all medical advice and any other information into
consideration.

The player may subsequently compete in another event at the same

tournament if the Tournament Doctor determines that the player’s condition
has improved to the extent that the player may safely physically perform at an
appropriate level of play, whether the same day or on a later day.

* It is recognized that national laws or governmental or other binding

regulations imposed upon the event by authorities outside its control may
require more compulsory participation by the Tournament Doctor in all
decisions regarding diagnosis and treatment.

5 Toilet/Change of Attire Break

A player is allowed to request permission to leave the court for a reasonable time
for a toilet break/change of attire break (women’s events).
Toilet breaks should be taken on a set break and can be used for no other
purpose.
Change of attire breaks (women’s events) must be taken on a set break.
In women’s singles events, a player is entitled to two (2) breaks during a match.
In men’s singles events, a player is entitled to one (1) toilet break during a best of
three (3) set match and two (2) toilet breaks during a best of five (5) set match.
In all doubles matches, each team is entitled to a total of two (2) breaks. If
partners leave the court together, it counts as one (1) of the team’s authorised
breaks.
Any time a player leaves the court for a toilet break, it is considered one of the
authorized breaks regardless of whether or not the opponent has left the court.
Any toilet break taken after a warm-up has started is considered one of the
authorised breaks.
Additional breaks will be authorised, but will be penalised in accordance with the
Point Penalty Schedule if the player is not ready to play within the allowed time.
Any player abuse of this rule will be subject to penalty in accordance with the
Unsportsmanlike Conduct section of the Code of Conduct.

F SUSPENSION AND POSTPONEMENT

The Chair Umpire or the ITF Supervisor/Referee may stop or suspend a match
temporarily due to darkness or conditions of the grounds or weather. This must be
reported immediately to the ITF Supervisor/Referee. Once a match is suspended and
until the ITF Supervisor/Referee postpones the match, the players, the Chair Umpire
and all on-court officials must remain ready to resume play. The ITF
Supervisor/Referee must make all decisions regarding the postponement of a match
to a later day.

15
If postponement is due to darkness it should be at the end of a set or after an even
number of games have been played in the set in progress.
Upon suspension/postponement of a match, the Chair Umpire shall record the time,
point, game and set score, the name of the server, the sides on which each player
was situated and shall collect all balls in use for the match.
In the case of a stopped, suspended or postponed match, the period of re-warm-up
shall be as follows:

• 0-15 minutes delay - No re-warm-up

• 15-30 minutes delay - Three (3) minutes re-warm-up
• 30 or more minutes delay - Five (5) minutes re-warm-up

G ANNOUNCING
Chair Umpires should announce matches in English and/or local language. In all
team competitions the name of the country or team should be used.
1 Warm-up
• “Three minutes” - three (3) minutes until warm-up ends
• “Two minutes” - two (2) minutes until warm-up ends
• “One minute” - one (1) minute until warm-up ends
• “Time, prepare to play” - end of warm-up, direct balls to server’s end of
court
• “______ to serve, play” - immediately prior to server preparing to serve
2 Player introductions
a If the introduction of players is to be made by the Chair Umpire, then after
the “One minute” announcement, say:
• “This is a ______ round singles/doubles match, best of three/five tie-
break sets. To the left of the chair ______, and to the right of the chair
______. ______ won the toss and chose/elected to ______.”
• “This is a ______ round doubles match. This match will consist of two
tie-break sets with No-Ad scoring. At one set all, a ten-point match tie-
break will be played to decide the match.”
b If the introduction of players is made by another announcer, then during the
warm-up say:
• “______ won the toss and chose/elected to ______.”
3 Crowd control
The spectators should always be addressed respectfully with statements
(preferably in the local language) similar to the following:
• “Quiet please, thank you”
• “Please be seated, thank you”
• “Seats quickly, please”
• “As a courtesy to both players...”
• “No flash photography, please”

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4 Score
a The server’s score is always called first, except in the tie-break.
b The score is announced:
• “Fifteen-Love, Love-Fifteen, Thirty-Love, Love-Thirty, Forty-Love, Love-
Forty, Fifteen-All, Fifteen-Thirty, Thirty-Fifteen, Fifteen-Forty, Forty-
Fifteen, Thirty-All, Forty-Thirty, Thirty-Forty, Deuce (never Forty-All),
Advantage, Game”
c If the No-Ad Scoring System is used, the announcement after deuce is:
• “Deciding point, receiver’s choice”
d The score should be announced loudly and clearly when a point is finished.
The announcement should be made quickly and before writing the score on
the scorecard unless circumstances are such that a delayed announcement
would be more effective.
e At the end of a game or set the Chair Umpire, in addition to “Game “, should
announce the score in games in conformity with the following examples:
• “Game Smith, he/she or Jones leads 4-2, first set” or
• “Game Smith, 3 games all, first set” or
• “Game and third set Smith, 7 games to 5. Jones leads 2 sets to 1”
If there is a scoreboard visible to the spectators, then the set score need not be
mentioned.
At the beginning of each set the Chair Umpire may announce:
• “Second Set, Smith to serve”
f When a set reaches the tie-break, announce:
• “Game Smith, 6 games all. Tie-break”
Before the start of a match tie-break, announce:
• “Ladies and Gentlemen, a ten-point match tie-break will now be played to
decide this match.”
g During the tie-break, the score is announced by first giving the score and then
the name of the player who is leading:
• “1-0 Jones” or “1-0 Jones/Smith”
• “1-All”
• “2-1 Smith”
Use “Zero” rather than “Love” in the tie-break.
At the conclusion of the tie-break, announce:
• “Game and set, 7-6”
h At the conclusion of the match, announce the winner:
• “Game, set and match Smith, (3 sets to 2), 6-4,1-6,7-6,4-6,6-2”
In each set, call first the number of games won by the winner of the match.
5 Code of Conduct
a Violations of the Point Penalty Schedule of the Code shall be announced in
accordance with the following examples:
• “Code Violation, Delay of Game, Warning, Mr/Ms______”
• “Code Violation, Racquet Abuse, Point Penalty, Mr/Ms ______”
• “Code Violation, Verbal Abuse, Game Penalty, Mr/Ms______”

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 b Violations of the Partisan Crowd Rule (Team Competitions) shall be
announced in accordance with the following:
• “Code Violation, Partisan Crowd, Warning, (Nation)”
• “Code Violation, Partisan Crowd, Point Penalty, (Nation)”
c Violations of the Regulations regarding Captains’ Behaviour (Team
Competitions) shall be announced in accordance with the following:
• “Unsportsmanlike Conduct, Captain, First Warning, (Nation)”
• “Unsportsmanlike Conduct, Captain, Second Warning, (Nation)”
• “Unsportsmanlike Conduct, Captain, Removal, (Nation)”
d Time Violations resulting from non-compliance with the Unreasonable Delay
provisions in the Code, shall be announced in accordance with the following:
• “Time Violation, Warning, Mr/Ms ______”
Subsequent delays:
• “Time Violation, Loss of Serve, Mr/Ms______, Second Serve or Score”,
or
• “Time Violation, Point Penalty, Mr/Ms______”
e After a Point Penalty or Game Penalty, announce the new score.
f When a Chair Umpire calls the ITF Supervisor/Referee to decide whether a
Code Violation shall constitute a default, he/she should inform the players
and, if necessary the spectators:
• “I am calling the Supervisor/Referee to discuss this Code Violation”.
If the ITF Supervisor/Referee decides to assess a default, it shall be
announced in accordance with the following example:
• “Code Violation, Physical Abuse, Default, Mr/Ms ______”
g A player cannot appeal to the Chair Umpire for a withdrawal of a Time
Violation or Code Violation given to his/her opponent.
h Time Violations and Code Violations shall be announced in English (local
language optional addition).
6 Medical Time-Out
a When the Chair Umpire decides to call for the Physiotherapist/Athletic
Trainer, he/she shall announce:
• “The Trainer has been called to the court”
b When a three (3) minute Medical Time-Out is authorised, the Chair Umpire
shall announce:
• “Mr/Ms ______ is now receiving a Medical Time-Out”
c To keep the opponent and Trainer advised of the time remaining during the
Medical Time-Out, the Chair Umpire shall communicate to them (no public
announcement):
“Two minutes remaining”
“One minute remaining”
“Thirty seconds remaining”
“Treatment complete”

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 d When the time for the Medical Time-Out is over, the player should be given
the time necessary to put on socks and shoes before the Chair Umpire shall
announce:
• “Time”
If there is no play within thirty (30) seconds after calling “Time”, the delay is
penalised in accordance with the Point Penalty Schedule.
e If the time-out is taken at a changeover or set break, then the time-out is in
addition to the time allowed for that changeover or set break.
f If a player decides to forfeit points/games to be able to receive treatment for
cramping, the Chair Umpire shall announce:
• “Mr/Ms _____is requesting immediate medical treatment for cramping.
He/She may receive this treatment only on a changeover/set break and
therefore is conceding all points and games up to the next changeover/set
break”
g Medical Time-Out Procedures for Chair Umpires and
Physiotherapists/Athletic Trainers can be found in Appendix C.
7 Electronic Review Systems
a When the Chair Umpire is satisfied that a proper review request has been
made, then Chair Umpire shall announce:
• “Mr/Ms _______is challenging the call on the Base Line (give specific
line), the ball was called IN/OUT”
b Depending on the timing, try to also announce:
• “Mr/Ms______has X challenges remaining” when there is a reduction.
c If the review is not available, announce (after informing the players):
• “Electronic Review is unavailable, the original call of IN/OUT stands”

H CALLS
The verbal calls of the on-court officials shall be made loudly and clearly as follows:
1 “Fault”
If either the first or second serve bounces outside the service court. Do not call
“Double fault” after a second serve fault.
2 “Out”
If a return hits the ground, a permanent fixture, or other object outside the proper
court.
Do not call “Outside”, “Over”, “Just Missed” or the like.
3 “Net”
If a serve hits the top of the net and goes over the net.
4 “Through”
If a ball goes through the net.
5 “Foot Fault”
If a player violates Rule 18 of the Rules of Tennis.
6 “Let”
If the Chair Umpire determines that a point should be replayed or one serve
should be replayed under Rules 22 and 23 of the Rules of Tennis.
7 “Not Up”
If a player fails to hit a ball in play on the first bounce.

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8 “Foul Shot” or “Touch”
If a ball is intentionally struck twice, or struck before it comes over the net, or a
player touches the net while the ball is in play, or a ball in play touches a player,
or anything that he/she is wearing or carrying falls into the opponent’s court
(Rule 24 of the Rules of Tennis).
9 “Hindrance”
If a player deliberately or involuntarily commits an act which hinders his/her
opponent in making a stroke (Rule 26 of the Rules of Tennis).
10 “Wait, please”
If an interference or disruption makes it appropriate to delay the beginning of a
point or second serve.
11 Overrules/Corrections
“Correction, the ball was good” to overrule a clearly incorrect “Out” call. “Out”
or “Fault” to overrule a clearly incorrect “Safe” signal.

I HAND SIGNALS
The hand signals are as follows:
1 “Out” or “Fault”
Arm fully extended sideways pointing in the direction in which the ball was
“Out” or “Fault”, palm of hand facing the Chair Umpire, fingers extended and
joined.
The hand signal must never be used instead of the verbal call. The hand signal is
in addition to and secondary to the verbal “Out” or “Fault” call.
2 “Good Ball” or “Safe Signal”
Open hands with palms down discreetly. There is no verbal call for a good ball.
The hand signal is used in silence, during a rally and on point-ending shots to
verify that a ball was good (approximately three (3) feet (1 metre) inside the
line).
3 “Unsighted”
Hands in front of face below eyes, backs of hands visible to Chair Umpire. The
hand signal shows that the Line Umpire is unable to make a call due to his/her
vision for some reason being obscured. There is no verbal call, the hand signal is
used in silence.
4 “Net” or “Through”
Arm fully extended upwards at the same time the verbal call “Net” or “Through”
is made.
5 “Foot Fault”
Arm fully extended upwards at the same time the verbal call “Foot Fault” is
made.
6 “Correction”
Arm fully extended upwards at the same time the verbal call “Correction” is
made.

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J ITF SCORECARD / ITF HAND-HELD SCORING DEVICE

a. ITF SCORECARD
The Chair Umpire shall mark his/her ITF Scorecard in accordance with the
following:
1 Pre-Match
Before the pre-match meeting with the players, complete the information
requested on the ITF Scorecard such as player’s names, name of tournament,
scoring format, round, ball change, etc.
2 Toss
After the toss, note who won the toss and the players’ choices.
3 Time/Interruptions
Note the time play begins and finishes in each set. Note the time and reason
for any interruptions during the match.
4 Sides for Serve
Note the initials of each player in the order of serving in the set, in the
“Server Side” column corresponding to their proper sides on the court.
5 Ball Change
Mark in advance the game at which a ball change will be made on the right
hand side of the ITF Scorecard.
6 Points
Points should be made by slanted marks in the boxes on the ITF Scorecard or
by the following:
“A” - Ace
“D” - Double Fault
In addition, a dot “.” shall be made in the middle of the bottom line of the
server’s box to indicate a first service fault.
7 Games
The cumulative total of games won by the winner of the last game only is set
out in the “Games” column.
8 Code and Time Violations
When a Code or Time Violation is given to a player a “C” or “T” shall be
marked in that player’s box on the Scorecard. When a Point or Game Penalty
is given, these shall be marked with an “X” for the player who receives these
points or games. When a Loss of Serve Penalty is given, it shall be marked
with a dot “.” in the case of a first serve, and with an “X” in the case of a
second serve. Code and Time Violations should also be marked in their
respective sections.
9 Statement
A statement should be made of all the facts of the Violation, including but not
limited to, quoting exactly any statements made that are considered to be
obscene or abusive.
10 Cramping
When a player concedes points to be able to receive treatment, these shall be
marked with an “X” for the player who receives these points.

A properly marked ITF Scorecard is shown in Appendix B.

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 b. ITF HANDHELD SCORING DEVICE
The Chair Umpire shall input all data in his/her handheld scoring device in
accordance with the following:
1. Pre-Match
Before the pre-match meeting with the players, verify that all match-related
data is accurately entered into the handheld scoring device. Match data
includes players’ names, scoring format, ball change, etc.
2. Toss
After the toss, input who won the toss and the players’ choices.
3. Time/interruptions/suspensions
Input any match interruptions, such as toilet/change of attire breaks, ten (10)
minute breaks, suspensions of play and rain delays promptly and accurately.
4. Points
Points shall be input timely and accurately.
5. Code and Time Violations
When a Code Violation or Time Violation is given to a player, the violation
shall be input into the hand-held scoring device promptly. Furthermore, a full
written statement shall be made of all the facts of the Violation, including but
not limited to, quoting exactly any statements made that are considered to be
obscene or abusive.

Instructions will be available for download from the ITF Officiating Portal and will
be provided on-site at ITF Pro Circuit tournaments for the operation.

K UMPIRES’ RESPONSIBILITIES
The responsibilities of Umpires shall be as follows:
1 Base, side, centre service and serviceline Umpires call all “Out” and “Fault” for
their respective lines.
2 The Net Umpire calls all “Net” and “Through” and assists with measuring the net
and ball changes.
3 Base, side and centre serviceline Umpires call “Foot Fault” on their respective
lines, even if it means calling through the net.
4 The Chair Umpire calls all “Let”, “Foul Shot”, “Touch”, “Not Up” and
“Hindrance”.

L UMPIRING WITH A FULL COMPLEMENT OF LINE UMPIRES

If a Chair Umpire has a full complement of ten (10) Line Umpires, then the
assignments/responsibilities shall be as shown above. Line Umpires shall not be
permitted to call through the net. The Line Umpires on sidelines and centre
servicelines should be standing.

M UMPIRING WITH LESS THAN A FULL COMPLEMENT OF

LINE UMPIRES
If less than a full complement of Line Umpires is available, utilisation of the Line
Umpires is recommended as follows:

22
1 Seven (7) Line Umpires
a The sidelines and centre servicelines are covered by four (4) standing Line
Umpires.
b All sidelines are called only up to the net.
c Serves are called from the receiver’s end and the centre serviceline Umpire
returns to the non-covered sideline after the serve is put into play.
d There is movement during the point.
e The responsibilities for a seven (7) Line Umpire crew shall be as shown
above.
2 Six (6) Line Umpires
a The sidelines and centre servicelines are covered by three (3) standing Line
Umpires.
b The side serviceline is called through the net from the server’s end and the
centre serviceline is called from the receiver’s end.
c There is no movement during the point.
d The responsibilities for a six (6) Line Umpire crew shall be as shown above.
3 Five (5) Line Umpires
a The sidelines and centre servicelines are covered by two (2) standing Line
Umpires.
b The assignments are the same as for the six (6) Line Umpires, except that the
centre serviceline Umpire shall move to the non-covered sideline after the
serve.
c There is movement during the point.
d The responsibilities for a five (5) Line Umpire crew shall be as shown above.
4 Less than five (5) Line Umpires
a The Chair Umpire shall assign the Line Umpires to the best advantage
possible.
b The Chair Umpire shall call all non-covered lines.
c The responsibilities shall be as shown above.
Diagrams showing the location and movements for seven (7), six (6) and five (5)
Line Umpires are shown in Appendix D.

N UMPIRING WITHOUT LINE UMPIRES

If a Chair Umpire is required to umpire a match without any Line Umpires, then the
Chair Umpire must make all calls.

O PROCEDURES FOR MATCHES PLAYED WITHOUT A CHAIR

UMPIRE
Procedures for ITF Supervisors/Referees and a Player Notice for matches played
without a Chair Umpire can be found in Appendix E.

P HINDRANCE
1 Hindrance by Officials
a If the call is corrected from “Out” to “Good”, then a Let must be played
unless the Chair Umpire in his/her sole judgment determines that it was a
clear ace or a clear winning shot that the player could not possibly have

23
 retrieved. If there is any reasonable possibility that such a ball could have
been played, then the player must be given the benefit of the doubt.
b If the call is corrected from “Good” to “Out”, then the point is ended, and
there is no hindrance.
c If a foot fault call is made before the server hits the ball, a Let should be
played.
2 Outside hindrance
If a player is hindered by anything not within his/her control (a ball rolling onto
the court, a paper blowing onto the court, etc.) during play or during his/her
service motion, the point should be replayed.
Crowd noise, “out” calls from spectators and other similar distractions are not
considered a hindrance and the point should stand as played.
3 Player hinders opponent
If a player hinders his/her opponent it can be ruled involuntary or deliberate.
a When a player has created an involuntary hindrance (ball falling out of
pocket, hat falling off, etc.), the first time the point should be replayed and
the player should be told that any such hindrance thereafter will be ruled
deliberate.
b Any hindrance caused by a player that is ruled deliberate will result in the
loss of a point.

Q CONTINUOUS PLAY/DELAY OF GAME

A maximum of twenty (20) seconds shall elapse from the moment the ball goes out
of play until the time the ball is struck for the next point, except at a ninety (90)
second changeover or a one hundred and twenty (120) second set break. The
procedures for enforcing this rule are as follows:
1 Twenty (20) Second Rule
a Start stopwatch when the player is ordered to play or when the ball goes out
of play.
b Assess Time Violation or Code Violation if the ball is not struck for the next
point within the twenty (20) seconds allowed. There is no time warning prior
to the expiration of the twenty (20) seconds.
2 Changeover (Ninety (90) Seconds) and Set Break (One Hundred and Twenty
(120) Seconds)
a Start stopwatch the moment the ball goes out of play.
b Announce “Time” after sixty (60)/ninety (90) seconds have elapsed.
c Announce “15 seconds” if one or both of the players are still at their chairs
and/or have not started toward their playing positions after seventy-five
(75)/one hundred and five (105) seconds have elapsed.
d Assess Time Violation or Code Violation (after medical time-out or
treatment) if the ball is not struck for the next point within the ninety (90)/one
hundred and twenty (120) seconds allowed provided there has been no
interference which prevented the server from serving within that time.
3 Receiver not playing to the reasonable pace of the server.
a Start stopwatch the moment the ball goes out of play or when the player is
ordered to play.

24
 b Assess Time Violation (also before expiration of twenty (20) seconds) if the
receiver’s actions are delaying the reasonable pace of the server.
c Assess Code Violation if the receiver is consistently or obviously delaying
the server, thus employing “Unsportsmanlike Conduct”.

R PLAYER MISCONDUCT ON COURT

The Chair Umpire has the primary responsibility for the enforcement of the Code of
Conduct during a match. Code Violations should be assessed immediately when a
player violates the Code. A Code Violation should be assessed for each violation.
After the match the Chair Umpire must still enforce the Code by reporting the facts
to the ITF Supervisor/Referee.

S CODE VIOLATIONS NOT WITNESSED BY THE CHAIR UMPIRE

Occasionally there are Code Violations by players that are witnessed by Line
Umpires only.
The Line Umpire should then immediately approach the Chair Umpire and report
the facts of the violation, during which time the Chair Umpire should switch off all
the microphones in the area of the chair.
The Chair Umpire may ask the player to respond to such report; thereafter, the Chair
Umpire must make a decision and either dismiss the report or assess a Code
Violation. If a Code Violation is assessed, then the Chair Umpire must announce
such violation to the player, opponent and spectators.
If, in the Chair Umpire’s opinion, there was a violation of the Code of Conduct, but
because of the time of discovery or otherwise it would be inappropriate to issue a
Code Violation, then he/she must notify the player that he/she will refer the matter
to the ITF Supervisor/Referee for action after the match.

T IMMEDIATE DEFAULT
The ITF Supervisor/Referee may declare a default for any misconduct violation of
the Code.
The election to proceed to an immediate default without going through the Point
Penalty Schedule is a serious action and should not be taken except for severe and
flagrant misconduct.

25
U CODE OF CONDUCT FOR OFFICIALS

The ATP, the Grand Slam Tournaments, the ITF and the WTA as members of the
Joint Certification Programme require a high standard of professionalism from all
Certified Officials (National, Green, White, Bronze, Silver and Gold) and all other
Officials, (together “Officials”) working at ATP, Grand Slam, ITF and WTA events.

a) Required standards

1. Officials must be in good physical condition.

2. Officials must have natural or corrected vision of 20-20 and normal hearing.
In addition, International Chair Umpires must submit an eye test form each
year to ITF Officiating and all other Certified Officials must submit an eye
test form every three years to ITF Officiating.
3. Officials must be on time for all matches assigned to them.
4. Officials must understand the Rules of Tennis, the Duties and Procedures for
Officials and all ATP, ITF, WTA and Grand Slam Tournament Regulations
and Codes of Conduct for events at which they are officiating.
5. Officials should conduct themselves in a respectful manner towards other
Officials, tournament staff, spectators and any person related to any
tournament/event.
6. Officials should maintain personal hygiene and should maintain a
professional appearance at all times.
7. Officials must not drink any alcoholic drinks before any match on the day
they are to officiate, or at any time on-site while play is in progress, or while
in uniform. As a guideline, Officials should not drink alcoholic drinks for 12
hours before officiating.
8. Officials must maintain complete impartiality with respect to all players at all
times. Specifically:
i) Officials must not officiate in any match in which they have a
relationship with one of the players that might be considered a conflict
of interest. The perception of a conflict shall render an Official
unsuitable for such an assignment;
ii) Officials shall not socialise with or become intimate with players, or
enter into any relationship or take any action that casts doubt on their
impartiality as a tennis Official. Officials are not prohibited from
attending social functions at which players may be present. Officials are
not prohibited from staying in the same hotels as players however
Officials shall not share a hotel room with any player of any age;
iii) Officials must register any potential conflict of interest with ITF
Officiating ([email protected]), who administers the Joint
Certification Programme on behalf of all members of the Joint
Certification Programme, e.g. if they are a professional tennis player, a
National Tennis Coach, a National Tennis Team Captain, a Tournament
Director/Organiser, if they perform work for a company that has a
commercial interest in tennis or if they are a close friend, relative or
Player Support Team member of a professional tennis player.

26
9. Officials must not criticise or attempt to explain calls or decisions by other
Officials to anyone other than to those Officials directly, the
Supervisor/Referee or the ATP, Grand Slam Tournaments, ITF and WTA
staff responsible for officiating.
10. Officials shall comply with the applicable criminal laws in all jurisdictions.
For the avoidance of doubt, and without limiting the foregoing, this
obligation is violated if an Official is convicted of or enters a plea of guilty or
no contest to a criminal charge or indictment for any offence in any
jurisdiction.
11. Officials are bound by and must comply with all of the provisions of the
Tennis Anti-Corruption Program (TACP), and it is their responsibility to
acquaint themselves with all the program rules, including the requirement to
report any potentially corrupt approaches to the Tennis Integrity Unit
([email protected]). Officials may be subject to separate
prosecution under the TACP.
12. Officials shall not have conversations with the crowd, except in the ordinary
course of controlling the crowd during a match.
13. Officials must not participate in a media interview or meeting with a
journalist where their statements relating to tennis officiating can be printed
or broadcast without the approval of the Supervisor/Referee.
14. Officials shall not engage in unfair, unprofessional, criminal or unethical
conduct, including attempt to injure or intentionally interfere with other
Officials, players, tournament personnel and public. All Officials must also
set a good example in their conduct to other Officials.
15. Officials shall not abuse his/her position of authority or control, and shall not
compromise the psychological, physical or emotional wellbeing of other
Officials, players or tournament personnel.
16. Officials shall not engage in sexual harassment or sexually abuse other
Officials, players or tournament personnel.
17. Officials must make all tournament related requests to the Supervisor/Referee
or Chief Umpire, rather than making requests directly to the Tournament
Director or staff.
18. Officials shall commit to each event they work at until released by the
Supervisor/Referee. If an Official has accepted a tournament selection, he/she
shall not withdraw from that tournament to officiate at another tournament at
the same time, without the permission of the ATP, Grand Slam Tournaments,
ITF or WTA officiating representatives, as applicable.

b) Violations and Sanctions

1. All Officials are under a continuing duty to disclose to the Joint Certification
Programme any actual, suspected or alleged violations of the Code of
Conduct for Officials of which they are aware, concerning themselves or
another Official. Failure to so report would in itself constitute a violation of
the Code of Conduct for Officials.
2. If the alleged violation takes place on-site at a tournament it should be
reported to the relevant organisation’s Officiating Representative following

27
 an initial investigation by the on-site Supervisor/Referee. The on-site
Supervisor/Referee has the authority to make a decision in relation to the
Official’s engagement at that tournament, including the authority to
provisionally dismiss an Official from a tournament.
3. Alleged violations taking place at other times should be reported in writing to
ITF Officiating.
4. Upon receipt of a report of an alleged violation of the Code of Conduct for
Officials, the relevant Officiating Representative shall promptly review the
matter and determine whether further investigation of all facts relevant to the
alleged violation is required. If so determined, the relevant Officiating
Representative will cause an investigation to be made of all facts concerning
the alleged violation, inform the Disciplinary Panel where necessary, provide
written notice to the Official concerned of the alleged violation to be
investigated and will give the Official a minimum of 10 days to provide such
information or evidence as the Official deems relevant to the investigation.
The investigation into the Official shall be concluded within a reasonable
time frame.
5. The Disciplinary Panel have the authority to provisionally suspend the
Official’s certification while the investigation is conducted. An Official that
is provisionally suspended may appeal such suspension in writing within
seven (7) days from the date of notice of the relevant suspension, stating the
detailed reasons for the appeal. Such appeal will be made to the Appeal Panel
set out in clause 14 below and will be determined on the papers submitted.
The decision of the Appeal Panel will be final and binding.
6. Upon completion of the investigation, the Disciplinary Panel shall determine
whether there is sufficient evidence to conclude that violation of the Code of
Conduct for Officials has been committed. The Official under investigation
shall be notified whether they will be charged with a breach of the Code of
Conduct or whether the investigation will be closed without charge.
7. In the event that a violation is found to have occurred, the Disciplinary Panel
shall determine any appropriate sanction(s) to be imposed on the Official. In
determining the appropriate sanction(s), the Disciplinary Panel may have
regard to all relevant factors, including but not limited to (1) submissions on
behalf of the tennis organisation at which the alleged violation occurred; (2)
the seriousness of the violation (3) the reputation and integrity of the game;
(4) any submissions and evidence filed in mitigation, and (5) the period of
any provisional suspension served. The range of sanctions available are in the
absolute discretion of the Disciplinary Panel and may include, but are not
limited to: (a) reprimand and warning as to future conduct, (b) withdrawal of
the certification, (c) suspension of the certification for a period of time or (d)
permanent exclusion of an Official. The Disciplinary Panel shall promptly
provide written notice of the findings and any sanctions imposed to the
Official.
8. Any decision of the Disciplinary Panel decided on the basis of a conviction of
or a plea of guilty or no contest to a criminal charge or indictment for any
offence in any jurisdiction as set out in clause a)10 of this Code of Conduct
for Officials shall be final.

28
 9. Any Official who receives a sanction as a result of a violation of the Code of
Conduct for Officials, other than as set out in clause b)8 above, may appeal
the decision in writing within fourteen (14) days from the date of notice of the
Disciplinary Panel’s decision, stating the detailed reasons for the appeal. Such
appeal shall be made to the Appeal Panel, which comprises four (4)
individuals, representing each of the ATP, Grand Slam Tournaments, ITF and
WTA (in the case of a Bronze, Silver or Gold Badge Official) or two (2)
individuals, representing ITF Officiating (in the case of a National, Green
Badge and/or White Badge Official), designated at the start of each calendar
year, who will have had no involvement in the investigation or the decision of
the Disciplinary Panel. The Appeal Panel will designate a time and place for
the hearing of the appeal, which may be conducted in person or by conference
call or videoconference, within twenty-one (21) days of receipt of the appeal.
The Official will be given the opportunity to present his/her views to the
Appeal Panel in writing. The Appeal Panel will issue its decision within
twenty-one (21) days of the hearing.
10. The Appeal Panel may affirm, reverse or modify (by the imposition of a
lesser or more severe sanction(s)) the decision of the Disciplinary Panel. The
Appeal Panel shall promptly give written notice of the findings and any
sanctions imposed to the Official. The decision of the Appeal Panel shall be
final and binding and not subject to further challenge by the Official.
11. Any decision of the Disciplinary Panel and/or the Appeal Panel pursuant to
this Code of Conduct for Officials may be communicated to those member
National Associations and/or other tennis organisations as is deemed
necessary by the Disciplinary Panel and/or the Appeal Panel, acting
reasonably. In the event of a finding that this Code of Conduct has been
violated, the relevant organisation may publish a summary of the decision of
the Disciplinary Panel and/or the Appeal Panel, the findings and evidence.

Note: For section b) of this Code of Conduct for Officials, National Officials, Green
and White Badge Officials the relevant Officiating Representative and
Disciplinary Panel shall be the ITF Head of Officiating; for Bronze, Silver
and Gold Badge Officials the relevant Officiating Representatives shall be the
nominated Officiating Representative of the ATP, Grand Slam Tournaments,
ITF and WTA depending on the event at which the alleged violation occurred
and the Disciplinary Panel shall comprise the nominated Officiating
Representatives of the ATP, Grand Slam Tournaments, ITF and WTA.

29
 III INTERPRETATIONS

A APPLICABILITY
This Article is applicable to all events sanctioned or recognised by the ITF, unless
otherwise specified.

B INTERPRETATIONS

Playing with Broken String(s)

In professional tennis, a player may not start a point with a racquet with a broken
string(s). If a player breaks a string(s) during the course of play he/she must
complete that point. If the receiver breaks a string(s) when returning a let first serve,
he/she must change the racquet immediately. If the receiver breaks a string(s) when
returning a fault first serve, he/she can choose either to change the racquet
immediately, in which case the server is allowed another first serve, or to finish the
point with a broken string(s), in which case the server is allowed only the second
serve.

Pipe Support/Cameras under Net

If a player touches the pipe support/camera, it is considered to be part of the net. If a
ball touches the pipe support/camera it is considered to be part of the ground.

Changing Wet Shoes/Socks

If requested at the beginning of a change-over, a player is allowed reasonable extra
time during the change-over to change wet shoes/socks, provided the new
shoes/socks are prepared. This shall be granted only once in a match, unless the
provisions for “Equipment out of Adjustment” take precedent (e.g. when the wet
shoes/socks are making the court unplayable). In that case the Chair Umpire has the
authority to decide each request on its own merit.

Chair Umpire Blocked on Question of Fact

When the Chair Umpire has the primary responsibility for a call (not-ups, touches
and nets/throughs if no net-umpire) he/she must make the immediate decision. If the
Chair Umpire does not see one of these rule violations, then no violation has taken
place and the point must stand.

Contact Lenses and Glasses

If a player is wearing contact lenses or glasses at the beginning of a match, these are
considered necessary equipment and the player is therefore entitled to reasonable
time if the lenses or glasses become out of adjustment (e.g. dirty lenses or broken
glasses). However, players are not allowed reasonable time to choose to change
from glasses to contact lenses or vice versa (when the equipment used is not out of
adjustment).

Electronic devices
A player is not allowed to use any electronic devices, other than approved Player
Analysis Technology (PAT), during matches, unless approved by the ITF
Supervisor/Referee.

30
 APPENDIX A

ITF OFFICIATING PORTAL

The following information can be found on the ITF Officiating Portal -

https://officiating.itftennis.com:

• Lists of Certified Officials

• Certification Requirements
• Officiating Guidelines
• Rule Books and Regulations
• Evaluation Forms and Guidelines
• Schools information
• Assignments (Pro Circuit, Davis Cup, Fed Cup, Grand Slam
Tournaments)
• Eye Test Form
• Open Book Test
• Chair Umpire Announcements (multi-language versions)
• Instructions for Tournament Planner Software (Pro, Junior & Senior)
• Electronic Forms for
ITF Pro Circuit
ITF Junior Circuit
ITF Wheelchair Circuit
Davis Cup by BNP Paribas
Fed Cup by BNP Paribas

31
 APPENDIX B

ITF SCORECARD

32
 APPENDIX C

MEDICAL TIME-OUT PROCEDURES FOR CHAIR UMPIRES

AND PHYSIOTHERAPISTS /ATHLETIC TRAINERS

NOT AT CHANGEOVER OR SET BREAK

TRAINER CHAIR UMPIRE
CU starts clock
CU: “The Trainer has been called to the court”
Trainer arrives
Trainer starts evaluating
Trainer tells CU: “Starting Medical Time-out” CU puts clock to zero and says: “Mr/Ms ___ is now receiving
a Medical Time-out”
CU: “2 minutes remaining”*
CU: “1 minute remaining”*
CU: “30 seconds remaining”*
Trainer leaves court CU: “Treatment complete”* ; “Time”#
If player is unable to play after 30 seconds, then announce
Code Violation for Delay of Game

DURING CHANGEOVER OR SET BREAK

TRAINER CHAIR UMPIRE
CU starts 90/120 seconds clock
Trainer starts evaluating
Before 60/90 seconds is up, Trainer tells CU: “Starting CU: “Mr/Ms ___ is now receiving a Medical Time-out”
Medical Time-out”
60/90 seconds elapse, CU puts clock to zero
CU: “2 minutes remaining”*
CU: “1 minute remaining”*
CU: “30 seconds remaining”*
Trainer leaves court CU: “Treatment complete”* ; “Time”#
If player is unable to play after 30 seconds, then announce
Code Violation for Delay of Game

AFTER CHANGEOVER OR SET BREAK

TRAINER CHAIR UMPIRE
CU starts 90/120 seconds clock
Trainer arrives
Trainer starts evaluating
After 55/85 seconds, CU asks Trainer: “It’s almost 60/90
seconds. Are you still evaluating?”
Trainer tells CU: “No. Changeover/set break only” CU: “Time”
OR
Trainer tells CU: “I’m still evaluating” CU waits
Trainer tells CU: “Starting Medical Time-out” CU puts clock to zero and says: “Mr/Ms___ is now receiving
a Medical Time-out”
CU: “2 minutes remaining”*
CU: “1 minute remaining”*
CU: “30 seconds remaining”*
Trainer leaves court CU: “Treatment complete”* ; “Time”#
If player is unable to play after 30 seconds, then announce
Code Violation for Delay of Game

Only the Chair Umpire announcements in bold should be made to the public. All other communication should be made directly to the
players and the Trainer.
* If treatment is complete and the Trainer leaves the court before 3 minutes is over, CU announces: “Treatment complete”; “Time”
# After announcing “Treatment complete” if needed, the player should be given the time necessary to put on socks and shoes before
“Time” is called.
The ITF Supervisor/Referee should also be called after the Trainer has been called, and he/she should communicate with the Trainer and
Chair Umpire as appropriate.

33
 APPENDIXD
#

ITF
#" POSITIONS OF
#
#"#  LINE&#
UMPIRES

34
35
36
 APPENDIX E

PROCEDURES FOR ITF SUPERVISORS/REFEREES

MATCHES PLAYED WITHOUT A CHAIR UMPIRE

The ITF recognises that at some tournaments it is not possible to have a Chair
Umpire for every match. In order to have a consistent approach, these procedures
have been created so that matches can be handled in a similar manner worldwide.
Please find attached a Player Notice, which gives some procedures for players
taking part in matches without a Chair Umpire. If you are the Referee at an event
where matches will be played in these circumstances, please make sure that this
notice is displayed for the players at the tournament site.
All references to the Referee in these procedures include the Assistant
Referee(s)/Off-Court Umpire(s).
Obviously, a number of problems can occur in these matches so it is very important
that the Referee walk around the courts as much as possible. The players appreciate
having easy access to an official in case of any problems. Referees should use the
following procedures when handling different situations.

Line Call Disputes - matches not played on clay courts

If the Referee is called to the court over a disputed line call and he/she was not
watching the match, he/she should ask the player who made the call (on his/her own
side of the net) if he/she is sure of the call. If the player confirms the call, the point
stands with this call.
If it appears that it would be beneficial to have the match officiated, the Referee
should try and find a Chair Umpire who will assume all the duties and call all the
lines from the chair. If this is not possible (e.g. no experienced Chair Umpire
available, no Umpire’s Chair), another option is for the Referee to stay on-court to
watch the rest of the match. The Referee should then tell the players that he/she will
correct any clearly incorrect line calls made by a player, who will then lose the
point.

Ball Mark and Line Call Disputes – matches played on clay courts only
If the Referee is called to the court to resolve a dispute, he/she should find out if the
players agree on which ball mark it is.
If the players agree on which mark it is, but disagree on their reading of the mark,
the Referee should decide if the mark shows the ball was in or out. If the mark is not
conclusive, the original player call stands.
If the players disagree on which mark it is, the Referee should find out from the
players what kind of shot was played and the direction in which the ball was hit.
This may assist in deciding which mark is the correct one. If this information does
not help, the call by the player at the end where the mark is stands.

If it appears that it would be beneficial to have the match officiated, the Referee
should try and find a Chair Umpire who will assume all the duties and call all the
lines from the chair. If this is not possible (e.g. no experienced Chair Umpire
available, no Umpire’s Chair), another option is for the Referee to stay on-court to

37
watch the rest of the match. The Referee should then tell the players that he/she will
correct any clearly incorrect line calls made by a player and, if requested, make ball
mark inspections.

Other Calls
When there is a dispute regarding lets, not-ups and foul shots, the Referee should try
to find out from the players what happened and make a decision as he/she deems
appropriate.

Blatantly Incorrect Calls

If the Referee is off-court watching a match when a player makes a blatantly
incorrect call, the Referee can go on-court and tell the player that the incorrect call
was an unintentional hindrance to his/her opponent and the point will be replayed.
The Referee must also tell the player that any further clearly incorrect calls may be
considered as a deliberate hindrance and the player will lose the point. In addition,
when a player makes a blatantly incorrect call, a Code Violation for
Unsportsmanlike Conduct can be given if the Referee is sure that the player is doing
it on purpose.
Referees must take care not to become too involved in matches when it is not
required or necessary, or to use the Hindrance Rule for close calls that are
incorrectly called. As a matter of practice, before using the Hindrance Rule, the
Referee must be very sure that a very bad call has been made.

Score Disputes
If the Referee is called to court to resolve a score dispute, he/she should discuss the
relevant points or games with the players to find out the points or games that the
players agree on. All points or games which the players agree on stand, and only
those in dispute should be replayed.
For example, a player claims the score is 40-30 and his/her opponent claims the
score is 30-40. You discuss the points with the players and discover that they
disagree only on who won the first point in the game. The correct decision is to
continue the game from 30-30, since both players agree that each of them has won
two points in that game.
When a game is in dispute, the same principle applies. For example, a player claims
that he/she is leading 4-3, but his/her opponent disagrees, claiming that he/she is
leading 4-3. After discussing the games you discover that both players claim they
won the first game. The correct decision is to continue the match with the game
score 3-3, since both players agree that each of them has won three games. The
player who received in the last game that was played will serve in the next game.
After resolving any score dispute, it is important for the Referee to emphasise the
procedure that the server should call the score before each 1st serve, loudly enough
for his/her opponent to hear.

Other Issues
Foot Faults can only be called by a Referee and not by the receiver. However, to call
foot faults the official must be standing on-court for the match. Officials standing
off-court are not allowed to make foot fault calls.

38
Coaching, as well as other Code and Time Violations can only be handled by the
Referee, so it is extremely important that there are officials observing the conduct of
the players and coaches. When issuing a Code or Time Violation, the Referee should
go on to court as soon as possible after the violation and briefly inform the players
that a Code or Time Violation has been issued.
The decision made by the Referee is final.

If you have any questions on these procedures, please contact ITF Officiating in
London.

39
PLAYER NOTICE

MATCHES PLAYED WITHOUT A CHAIR UMPIRE

At this tournament, some matches will be played without a Chair Umpire. All
players should be aware of the following basic principles when playing a match in
these circumstances:
• Each player is responsible for ALL calls on his/her side of the net
• All “out” or “fault” calls should be made promptly after the ball has bounced
and loudly enough for the opponent to hear
• If in doubt, the player must give the benefit of the doubt to his/her opponent
• Except when playing on clay, if a player incorrectly calls a ball “out” and then
realises that the ball was good, the point should be replayed, unless it was a
point winning shot or unless that player made an incorrect “out” call earlier in
the match. In these circumstances, the player who called “out” loses the point.
• The server should call the score before each first serve, loudly enough for
his/her opponent to hear
• If a player is unhappy with his/her opponent’s actions or decisions, he/she
should call the Referee (or Assistant Referee/Off-Court Umpire)

For matches played on clay courts, there are some additional procedures that all
players should follow:
• A ball mark can be checked on a point ending shot, or when play is stopped (a
return is permitted, but then the player must immediately stop)
• If a player is unsure of his/her opponent’s call, he/she can ask his/her opponent
to show the mark. The player can then cross the net to look at the mark
• If a player erases the mark, he/she is conceding the point
• If there is a disagreement over a ball mark, the Referee (or Assistant
Referee/Off-Court Umpire) can be called to make a final decision
• If a player calls a ball “out”, he/she should, in normal circumstances, be able to
show the mark
• If a player incorrectly calls a ball “out” and then realises that the ball was good,
the player who called “out” loses the point

Players who do not fairly follow these procedures could be subject to the Hindrance
Rule and the Unsportsmanlike Conduct provision of the ITF Code of Conduct.

Any questions on these procedures should be referred to the ITF Supervisor/Referee.

© ITF Limited t/a International Tennis Federation

All rights reserved
2015

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