Who calls the lines in tennis without an umpire?

Each player calls the balls on their own side of the net. Any doubt goes in your opponent's favor.

What should I do if a ball rolls onto my court?

Stop play and call a let; the point is replayed. Return the ball to the other court when their point ends.

Is it rude to hit a hard return on a fault serve?

Yes, if the serve is clearly out. Let it go or block it into the net so you don't send a ball at your opponent.

Tennis Etiquette

7 video lessons

Line calls, the score, stray balls and other court manners.

Quick answer & tips ▾

In casual and most league matches you call the lines on your own side, so call out balls quickly and clearly, and if you are not sure, the ball is good. The server should call the score before each point, loud enough for everyone to hear.

Between points, send balls back to the server with a bounce rather than hitting them anywhere. Never walk behind or across a court while a point is being played, and wait for a break before asking for a stray ball back. If a ball rolls onto your court mid-point, call a let and replay it. Shake hands at the end, win or lose.

Key tips

When in doubt, call it in.
Server announces the score before every point.
Don't return an obvious fault serve; let it go by.
Wait for the point to end before crossing behind a court.

FAQ

Who calls the lines in tennis without an umpire?: Each player calls the balls on their own side of the net. Any doubt goes in your opponent's favor.
What should I do if a ball rolls onto my court?: Stop play and call a let; the point is replayed. Return the ball to the other court when their point ends.
Is it rude to hit a hard return on a fault serve?: Yes, if the serve is clearly out. Let it go or block it into the net so you don't send a ball at your opponent.