Tournament Rules

Match Format

Each match consists of one set. The first player to win 6 games wins the set, provided they lead by at least 2 games. If the score reaches 5-5, play continues until one player leads by 2 (e.g. 7-5). If the score reaches 6-6, a tiebreak is played.

Game Scoring

Points within a game follow the standard sequence:

At 40-40 (deuce), a player must win two consecutive points: the first gives advantage, the second wins the game. If the player with advantage loses the next point, the score returns to deuce.

Tiebreak

A tiebreak is played when the set score reaches 6-6. Points are counted numerically (1, 2, 3…). The first player to reach 7 points with a lead of at least 2 points wins the tiebreak and the set (final score 7-6). If the tiebreak reaches 6-6, play continues until one player leads by 2.

• The player whose turn it is to serve starts with one serve from the deuce (right) side.
• After the first point, the opponent serves the next two points, then players alternate every two points.
• Players change ends after every 6 points played.

Serving

Before the match, players decide who serves first by coin toss or racket spin. The winner chooses to serve, receive, or pick a side (their opponent gets the remaining choice). Service alternates every game.

• The server gets two attempts per point. The first point is served from the right (deuce) side, alternating sides thereafter.
• A serve is a faultif the ball hits the net and doesn't land in the correct service box, lands outside the service box, or the server foot-faults.
• Two consecutive faults (double fault) = point to the receiver.
• A let (serve clips the net cord but lands in the correct box) is replayed with no penalty. There is no limit on lets.

Changing Ends

Players switch sides after the 1st game of the set, then after every odd-numbered game (3rd, 5th, 7th, etc.). During a tiebreak, players change ends after every 6 points played.

Self-Officiating

Matches are played without a chair umpire. Each player is responsible for making line calls on their own side of the court.

• A ball touching any part of the line is in.
• Call "out" or "fault" immediately and clearly — delayed calls are not accepted.
• When in doubt, the ball is in — give the benefit to your opponent.
• Announce the score before every serve: server's games first, then receiver's; within the game, server's points first.

Code of Conduct

Fair play and sportsmanship are expected at all times. Arrive on time — lateness of more than 15 minutes may result in a default loss.

The following are not permitted: racket abuse, deliberate time-wasting, verbal abuse or profanity, intentionally hitting the ball at an opponent, and excessive arguing over line calls.

Penalty progression: warning → point penalty → game penalty → disqualification.

Disputes

If players cannot resolve a disagreement themselves, they should contact the tournament organizer, whose decision is final. If neither player saw where the ball landed, the point is replayed.