The Rules of Tennis
This is the penultimate post on the rules of wheelchair tennis. Today we are discussing the fact that if a player is unable to propel the wheelchair via the pushrrim, then it is permissible to use one foot to move the chair around the court. This cannot possibly be more efficient than pushrim propulsion. That is probably why it is generally allowed.
In true Fiend at Court fashion, I must digress. With all the golf talk over the past weekend, the phrase “foot wedge” comes to mind. In the terms of the golf industry, I am a “latent golfer.” In other words, I used to golf, but no longer do. For that reason alone, this section of the rules invokes the phrase “foot wedge.” In related news, the “foot wedge” is a key part of the Fiend at Court Spousal Unit’s golf game. On the other hand, I am more of a “beer cart” girl.
But… back to the rules of tennis.
Even if in accordance with rule f) a player is permitted to propel the chair using one foot, no part of the player’s foot may be in contact with the ground:
a) during the forward motion of the swing, including when the racket strikes the ball
b) from the initiation of the service motion until the racket strikes the ball.
The Rules of Wheelchair Tennis, ITF Rules of Tennis
So basically the player may use one foot against the ground to propel the wheelchair. However, the foot cannot be in contact with the ground when the player strikes the ball. When serving, the foot may not contact the ground at any time once the service motion is initiated.
What is the penalty for breaking these rules?
iii. A player in breach of this rule shall lose the point.
The Rules of Wheelchair Tennis, ITF Rules of Tennis
But of course.
- United States Tennis Association (2021), Friend at Court: Handbook of Rules and Regulations, White Plains, NY
