Tennis is a game that appears simple on the surface but functions under various intricate rules. Some of the most fundamental rules include the rules of service. A service is shot by a player and starts a point. Read the full article to know the rules of service in tennis.
A player must stand behind the baseline between the center mark or hash mark and the sideline and service the ball into the service box, beyond the net, diagonally opposite to them. For example, if a player stands between the center mark and the right sideline, he or she must deliver the ball into the opponent’s right service box. And only then can the players move past the baseline. Read More: The Top 10 Rules of Tennis Everyone Must Know.
Fault
If the ball fails to land in the correct service box, then it is called a fault. A fault may occur for several reasons. For example, the ball is low enough to be stopped by the net if it lands outside the lines bounding the court, if the foot of the player is beyond the sideline, baseline, or center mark, or if the server swings the racquet but misses the ball. But a server is allowed a second chance and doesn’t lose a point; however, if they fail to deliver a legal serve twice, then it is called a double fault. A double fault rewards the opponent with a point.
Let
When the ball touches the net cord but lands in the correct service box, then that’s called a let. The umpire or the opponent (in the absence of an umpire), when a lot happens, will say “let” or “net” to acknowledge it. The service must be redone. If the ball touches the net cord and lands in the incorrect service, then it is a fault. Also read: What is a Walkover in Tennis? Meaning, Rules, Stats, Examples & Why It Happens?
Good Serve and Ace
If a server can deliver a ball into the correct service box without touching the net cord or any object other than the opponent’s racquet, then it is called good service, and the play begins. However, if the opponent misses the ball and the ball bounces a second time, then it is called an ace. The server immediately receives a point after the second bounce. The probability of an ace occurring is higher on the first service since the players are confident and don’t run the risk of losing a point. Also read:What is LET in Tennis? It’s Definition, History and FAQ