As a courtesy to others and to ensure an enjoyable on-court experience for everyone, Liverpool Tennis Club members should familiarize themselves with the following three sets of tennis rules: the official ITF rules, the official Tennis Canada rules, and "The Code" (which governs recreational play).

OFFICIAL ITF RULES

The official rules of tennis are set forth by the International Tennis Federation (ITF), which is the sport's world governing body. National tennis federations, such as Tennis Canada and the United States Tennis Association (USTA), are members of the ITF and conduct tournaments according to these rules.

Official ITF Rules of Tennis - 2010

OFFICIAL TENNIS CANADA RULES

The ITF rules are used as a basis for Tennis Canada's "Rules Of The Court", which govern tennis matches played in Canada.  When the ITF rules are unclear or silent on a ruling, the Tennis Canada rules are a good "second source" for making a rules decision.

Official Tennis Canada "Rules Of The Court" - 2010

THE CODE

Professional tennis players follow the written rules of tennis, which are enforced by tournament officials. Recreational tennis players follow those rules too; but unlike the pros, club players almost never have an official available to rule on disputes. Because of this, another set of "rules" was developed, specially designed to cover all the situations that might arise in unofficiated matches, in order to avoid disputes. This set of rules is known by tennis players around the world simply as "The Code."

Originally written in 1989 by Colonel Nicholas Powell as an addendum to the USTA's rules, The Code is now a universally accepted set of rules unto itself, developed as a result of custom and tradition. It is based on bedrock principles of honesty, courtesy, sportsmanship, and most importantly, extending your opponents every benefit of the doubt. Since unofficiated matches constitute the vast majority of recreational club play, all players should make it their personal responsibility to know The Code.

For instance, if doubles partners disagree whether a ball hit by an opponent is out, what happens? If a ball rolls onto the court during play, is the point considered a let? If you discover that you and your opponent have lost track of the score, what should you do?

Know The Code. It's the rules of the tennis road.

The Code