Is a foot fault a fault or a lost point?

A fault. On a first serve you still get a second serve; on a second serve it is a double fault.

Can you step on the baseline after hitting the serve?

Yes. The rule only applies until the racquet hits the ball.

Can the receiver call a foot fault?

In unofficiated club play, only for clear foot faults and normally after warning the server first.

What Is a Foot Fault in Tennis?

6 video lessons

The serving rule most club players break.

Quick answer & tips ▾

A foot fault is when the server touches the baseline or the court inside it with either foot before hitting the ball. It also counts if you stand past the center mark or the sideline, or walk or run into the serve. A foot fault is treated as a fault, the same as missing the serve.

Your feet can leave the ground, and you can land inside the court after contact; that is legal and is how most good servers finish. In club matches without an umpire, the receiver should only call clear foot faults, usually after a warning. If you keep creeping onto the line, set your front foot an inch or two back and keep it planted until the swing.

Key tips

Nothing touches the line until the ball is struck.
Jumping and landing inside the court is legal.
Stand between the center mark and the correct sideline.
Leave a small gap behind the line and keep the front foot planted.

FAQ

Is a foot fault a fault or a lost point?: A fault. On a first serve you still get a second serve; on a second serve it is a double fault.
Can you step on the baseline after hitting the serve?: Yes. The rule only applies until the racquet hits the ball.
Can the receiver call a foot fault?: In unofficiated club play, only for clear foot faults and normally after warning the server first.