As a tennis enthusiast and a knowledgeable figure in the sports domain, I am well-versed in the intricacies of the game's rules and regulations. Tennis is a sport that has seen numerous changes and evolutions over the years, and understanding the nuances of these changes is crucial for players and fans alike. One of the aspects that often comes up in discussions is the legality of hitting the ball twice in a row, also known as a "double hit."

In the traditional rules of tennis, a player is not allowed to hit the ball twice in succession. This is considered a fault, and the point is awarded to the opponent. However, there are specific scenarios where a double hit can be permissible under certain conditions. Let's delve into the details of this rule and its evolution.

The Double Hit Rule and Its Evolution

The rule regarding a double hit in tennis has undergone a significant change, as mentioned in the reference material provided. Prior to May 2008, a double hit was strictly against the rules, and players would lose a point if they touched the ball twice before it crossed the net. This was true even if the ball was hit with a continuous motion.

The Change in 2008

The major change that was passed by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) in May 2008 pertains to the legality of a double hit. According to the updated rule, a double hit is now considered a legal shot under specific conditions. A player is allowed to hit the ball twice in succession if they use a continuous motion and if the second hit occurs before the ball makes contact with the ground or any permanent fixtures, such as the net or the screen surrounding the court.

This change was introduced to make the game more spectator-friendly and to encourage players to go for more aggressive shots without the fear of losing a point due to a split-second decision that resulted in a double hit. It is important to note that the double hit must still be executed in a way that does not give the player an unfair advantage over their opponent.

The Continuous Motion Requirement

The key to a legal double hit lies in the continuous motion of the player's stroke. This means that from the initiation of the swing to the follow-through, the player must hit the ball twice in a seamless, fluid motion. If there is a discernible pause between the two hits, it would not be considered a legal double hit, and the player would be penalized.

**The Ball Must Not Touch the Ground or Screen**

Another crucial aspect of the legal double hit is that the ball must not have touched the ground or any permanent fixtures before the second hit. If the ball bounces or hits the net or screen before the player's second contact, it would result in a fault.

Implications for Players and the Game

This rule change has had several implications for both players and the game of tennis. For players, it allows for more creative and aggressive shot-making, as they can now opt for a double hit without immediately conceding a point. For the game, it adds an element of excitement and unpredictability, as players can now attempt shots that were previously off-limits due to the risk of a double hit fault.

In conclusion, while the traditional rule of not hitting the ball twice in succession still holds in most cases, the 2008 amendment to the rules by the ITF has made it possible for players to legally execute a double hit under certain conditions. This change has been well-received by the tennis community and has added a new dimension to the sport.

read more >>

No, the let rule has not been changed and lobs out of the court are still a loss of point. However, a major change passed by the Board at the May 2008 meeting is that a --carry-- or --double hit-- is now a legal shot providing that the player uses a continuous motion, and hits the ball before it reaches the screen.read more >>