Have you ever had a dispute with a fellow player over a call on the court that you couldn’t settle? Maybe you’re just curious about how some scenarios, from the common to the ridiculous, are resolved.

 

Question: My doubles partner and I were feeling confident after we won our first set in 20 minutes. We decided it was time to switch things up a bit and do what is called an “I-formation”.

 

The first time we tried it, it didn’t go too well as I accidentally hit my partner on a first serve. Is this a fault or does the opposing team win that point automatically?

 

Answer: Your doubles partner may want to trade the I-formation for the “stand off-court while you serve” formation after this one! We’re kidding, but at least you gave it a try. If a ball served touches you or your partner or anything you are both wearing, it is a service fault. ADVERTISEMENT Luckily, this was a first serve, so you would have had another chance to try it again.

 

To view other examples of service faults, please visit ITF Rule 19.

 

**

 

For the "Friend at Court" handbook and more information on the rules of tennis, visit the rules and regulations homepage.