Wheelchair Tennis Rules in English: A Complete Guide to the Sport's Regulations

Wheelchair tennis is a dynamic and fast-paced adaptive sport that follows most of the rules of standard tennis, with a few key modifications to accommodate the use of a wheelchair. Governed by the International Tennis Federation (ITF), it has become a premier event in the Paralympic Games. Understanding the specific regulations is essential for players, officials, and enthusiasts to fully appreciate the skill and athleticism involved.

Core Rule: The Two-Bounce Rule The most distinctive rule in wheelchair tennis is the "two-bounce rule." A player is allowed the ball to bounce a maximum of two times before returning it. The first bounce must be within the boundaries of the court. The second bounce can be either inside or outside the court lines. This rule applies in all divisions and is fundamental to the flow of the game, allowing for longer rallies and strategic play.

Equipment and Court Specifications The court dimensions, net height, and balls used are identical to those in standard tennis. The primary equipment difference is the sports wheelchair, which is designed for agility and stability, often with cambered wheels for better maneuverability. There are no restrictions on the use of the wheelchair as part of playing a shot; a player may use their chair to strike the ball.

Classification and Competition Players are classified based on their level of physical impairment to ensure fair competition. The main categories are Open Division (for athletes with permanent impairment in one or both lower limbs) and Quad Division (for athletes with additional restrictions in upper limb function). In Quad matches, players may use an electrically-powered wheelchair and may tape the racket to their hand.

Scoring and Match Play The scoring system is exactly the same as in traditional tennis: points progress from Love (0) to 15, 30, 40, and Game. Matches are typically played as the best of three sets. All standard tennis shots—serve, volley, groundstroke—are employed. The server must maintain a stationary position before striking the ball, and the serve is delivered from within the service box boundaries.

The Spirit of the Game Beyond the technical regulations, wheelchair tennis embodies the principles of athletic excellence, resilience, and inclusivity. The rules are designed to create a challenging and competitive environment that highlights the players' extraordinary wheelchair control, hand-eye coordination, and tactical intelligence. Whether you are a budding player, a coach, or a spectator, grasping these rules enriches the experience of this thrilling global sport.

This guide to the official wheelchair tennis rules in English provides a solid foundation for engaging with the sport at any level.