Wheelchair Tennis: Different Rules?
Wheelchair tennis is a growing sport for athletes with disabilities. While the wheelchair tennis rules are largely the same as regular tennis, there are some important differences. This article will explore the rules of wheelchair tennis, as well as the differences between wheelchair and regular tennis.
Wheelchair tennis is an adapted form of the game of tennis. It is played by individuals who use wheelchairs to move around the court. This form of tennis is governed by the International Tennis Federation, and has been an official Paralympic sport since 1988.
How Is Wheelchair Tennis Played?
The rules of wheelchair tennis are largely the same as regular tennis. The main difference is that wheelchair tennis players are allowed two bounces of the ball before it must be returned. This is to allow players more time to get into position to hit the ball.
In addition, wheelchair tennis players are allowed to use a wheelchair to move around the court. The wheelchair must not be pushed or pulled, and must be propelled by the player’s arms. The player must remain seated in the wheelchair during play.
Wheelchair Tennis Service Rules
The service rules in wheelchair tennis are slightly different than regular tennis. The server must be seated in the wheelchair and must hit the ball with an underarm motion. The server must also have at least one foot touching the ground during the service. The ball must be struck within the boundaries of the service court and must land within the boundaries of the service court.
Wheelchair Tennis Scoring Rules
The scoring rules in wheelchair tennis are the same as regular tennis. A match consists of two sets and a third set, if necessary. The first player to win two sets is the winner of the match. A set consists of four games, and a game consists of four points.
Wheelchair Tennis Court Dimensions
The court dimensions for wheelchair tennis are slightly different than regular tennis. The court is larger, and the net is lower. The court is 36 feet long and 18 feet wide. The net is three feet high.
Wheelchair Tennis Equipment Rules
The equipment rules in wheelchair tennis are the same as regular tennis. Players must use a racket with a maximum length of 27 inches. The ball must be made of rubber and must have a diameter of 2.5 inches.
Wheelchair Tennis Singles Versus Doubles
Wheelchair tennis can be played as either singles or doubles. In singles, the players use their own wheelchairs. In doubles, the players are allowed to use a partner’s wheelchair.
Wheelchair Tennis Eligibility
A wheelchair tennis player must meet certain eligibility requirements in order to compete. The player must have a disability that prevents them from playing regular tennis. Players must also have a valid International Tennis Federation (ITF) wheelchair tennis ranking.
Wheelchair Tennis Tournaments
There are a number of wheelchair tennis tournaments that are held throughout the year. These tournaments are sanctioned by the ITF and are open to players of all levels. Some of the major tournaments include the US Open Wheelchair Tennis Championships, the Australian Open Wheelchair Tennis Championships, and the French Open Wheelchair Tennis Championships.
Conclusion
Wheelchair tennis is an adapted form of the game of tennis. While the rules are largely the same as regular tennis, there are some important differences. These include:
- Two bounces of the ball before it must be returned
- Wheelchair must be propelled by the player’s arms
- Underarm service motion
- Wheelchair court dimensions
- Wheelchair singles and doubles
- Eligibility requirements
Wheelchair tennis is an exciting and growing sport. With its own rules and tournaments, wheelchair tennis offers an opportunity for athletes with disabilities to compete at a high level.