As a sports enthusiast with a keen interest in wheelchair tennis, I am delighted to share my knowledge on the subject. Wheelchair tennis is a thrilling and competitive sport that has been adapted to accommodate athletes with physical disabilities, primarily those who use wheelchairs for mobility. The game is governed by a set of rules that ensure fair play and an exciting experience for both players and spectators. Here's a comprehensive look at the rules of wheelchair tennis:

Introduction:
Wheelchair tennis is played under the same rules as able-bodied tennis, with a few modifications to accommodate the use of wheelchairs. The sport is recognized and governed by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) and various national associations, such as the United States Tennis Association (USTA).

Court Dimensions:
The court dimensions are the same as those used in standard tennis, with a full-size court measuring 78 feet in length and 27 feet in width for singles matches, and 36 feet in width for doubles matches.

Racket and Ball:
Players use the same type of racket and ball as in traditional tennis. The ITF and other governing bodies ensure that the equipment meets the required standards for professional play.

Scoring:
The scoring system in wheelchair tennis is identical to that of able-bodied tennis. Games are won by scoring points in a sequence (15, 30, 40), and a set is won by the player who first wins six games, with a margin of at least two games.

Two Bounce Rule:
One of the key adaptations in wheelchair tennis is the two-bounce rule. This rule allows the ball to bounce twice before it must be returned. The first bounce can be anywhere within the court boundaries, and the second bounce must occur before the ball hits the ground a third time. This second bounce can be either inside or outside the court boundaries, providing players with an additional opportunity to reach the ball.

Service:
Service in wheelchair tennis follows the same principles as in able-bodied tennis, with the server standing behind the baseline. However, there is an additional rule: the server must make contact with the court with their wheelchair during the serve. This ensures that the serve is executed from a stationary position.

Foot Faults:
Since players are seated, the concept of a foot fault is adapted. A player commits a foot fault if any part of their wheelchair touches the ground outside the designated service area before the ball is struck.

Wheelchair Mobility:
Players are allowed to move freely within the court using their wheelchairs. However, they must not touch the court with their wheelchair while the ball is in play, except during the serve.

Advantage System:
The advantage system is used in wheelchair tennis, just as in traditional tennis, to break ties in games where the score reaches deuce (40-40).

Disability Considerations:
Wheelchair tennis is open to players with a range of disabilities. However, players must meet specific eligibility criteria set by the ITF, which may include medical evaluations and classification processes.

Classification:
Players are classified into different categories based on their functional abilities. This classification ensures that players compete against others with similar abilities, fostering fair competition.

Main and Second Draws:
The ITF rules apply to the main and second draws of open tournaments, which are open to all eligible players. For divisional play, which is organized by the USTA and other national associations, specific rules may apply, often tailored to the level of competition and the players' classifications.

Conclusion:
Wheelchair tennis is a testament to the resilience and skill of athletes with disabilities. The sport has grown in popularity and is now a regular feature at major tennis events, including the Paralympic Games. The rules of wheelchair tennis, while adapted to accommodate the use of wheelchairs, maintain the spirit and competitiveness of the sport.

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The ITF rules shall apply to Main and Second Draws (open) while USTA rules shall apply to Divisional play (A,B,C). The wheelchair tennis player is allowed two bounces of the ball.The player must return the ball before it hits the ground a third time. The second bounce can be either in or out of the court boundaries.read more >>