Tennis etiquette ?

Question

What's your opinion, how appropriate is it to hit right in your opponent's body when both of you play at the net?

Probably it's not against the rules. But I've never seen anyone repeatedly hitting into the body on purpose when both play at the net. Until yesterday. We played a practice mixed doubles match with my new team, and the lady from the opposite couple would repeatedly hit into my partner with all her might. He is an eldery gentlemen, and though a very good player, but when hit from the distance of about 2 yards, he just didn't have enough time to get away from the ball. I commented on it, and she apologized and stopped. But I wonder how good or bad is it ethically? I never do it, and I've never seen anyone doing it on purpose. From the backline - yes, there's enough time to get ready even if you are hit into the body. But from the net - it's simply dangerous to do it, you can really hurt your opponent very badly.

Answer 1

Although this tactic is perfectly legal according to the rules of tennis, ethically it can be seen as unsportsmanlike in a practice match. An apology should follow such an action as a courtesy. However, in a tournament or league match, this is actually the proper play to win a point. You should still apologize for the play and you can also expect a retaliation should the opportunity arise for the other team. In doubles, a couple should decide before starting if they are going to utilize such a play and possibly suffer the consequences.

Answer 2

its still legal.. but your sportsmanship may go down to other people..

Answer 3

Ethical?  Well, it certainly depends on how competitive the match is.  Hitting directly at a player is a legitimate court tactic often used in doubles.  But you shouldn't be trying to "take him out"!  

Depending on how fast the rallying is, a typical ball target is at the opponent's feet.  Of course, if your opponent is standing just 2 yds in front of you, then he might consider MOVING out of the way.  If the competitive level is above "recreational"; then you should expect to be a "target" on "short" balls.  If you're playing "recreationally" or just for fun, there's no need to go AT your opponents...unless you just "tap" it at them.

That being said, going AT your opponent when he's crowding the net is a common tactic in doubles.  A player crowding the net is basically "challenging" you to go at him/her or try to pass them.  So, from time to time, to keep them honest, you should take that challenge (particularly on return of 2nd serve).

So, yes, it's fine to hit in the direction of your opponent...BUT overheads into the opponent's groin area (or head) are considered, "CHEAP" shots!

Answer 4

Fair is fair.  It may not be nice, but then again serious competition rarely is.  If this happens again, just return the favor.  Aim for her uterus!

Answer 5

It appears the opponent was showing poor sportsmanship.  When you are competing, sometimes you are just trying to return a complicated shot, which might appear offensive if hit directly at the opponent's body.  But time after time, that would appear calculating from many viewpoints.

Answer 6

Its perfectly fine. However, since the guy was elderly, then a bit of class and compassion should override what is considered acceptable against a younger tougher opponent.

There's a dude who is 50 years old and I could easily get him running back and forth, but it would be mean, so I try to hit to him a few times for longer rallies.