Understanding the Tennis Court

Playing Lines

The outside dimensions of a tennis court are:

Doubles 36' x 78' (10.973 m x 23.774 m)

Singles 27' x 78' (8.230 m x 23.774 m)

All lines shall be not less than 1" (2.54 cm) or more than 2" (5 cm) in width, except the base line which may be up to 4' (10 cm) in width and the center line which shall be 2" (5 cm) in width.

This allowable variation in line width results in non-uniformity and confusion and, therefore, the U.S. Court and Track Builders Association recommends that all lines be 2" (5 cm) in width, except the base line which may be up to 4" (10 cm) in width.

All measurements shall be to the outer edge of the lines except the center line and the center mark which shall be on the center line of the court.

Tolerance

The lines shall be laid out and applied as close to the exact measurements as is possible within the limitations of the surface on which they are being applied. At no time shall the line dimensions vary more then one-quarter inch from the exact measurement. The type of surface and intended purpose of the court, i.e. recreation, club, tournament, etc., however, shall be the factors considered in determining the allowed tolerance.

Back Space

Tournament play requires a minimum 21' (6.401 m) from base line to fixed obstruction (i.e. backstop, wall, etc.). In non-tournament play, this distance may be reduced to 18' (5.486 m).

Side Space

Not less than 12' (3.658 m) from sideline to fixed obstruction (i.e. sidestep, light pole, wall, etc.).

For indoor courts where netting is used between courts, the netting is considered to be a movable obstruction, in which case 9' (2.743 m) is considered a minimum between sideline and netting. Only where space limitations become a factor and the 12' (3.658 m) minimum cannot be provided may the side space from sideline to a fixed obstruction be reduced to a minimum of 9-1/2' (2.896 m). This dimension does not restrict obstructions at the net line; for example, the net post of the adjacent courts or light standards.

Net Posts

Net posts shall be set 3' (.914 m) outside the side line 33' (10.058 m) singles, 42' (12.802 m) doubles, center to center of posts. The top of the net at the inside face of the posts or supports when used to support a net for singles play on a doubles court shall be exactly 42" (1.067 m) above the court surface. There shall be no obstruction above the top of the net at any point, including at the post.

Playing Lines

Base lines shall be not more than four inches (4") wide and playing lines not more than two inches (2") wide, accurately positioned in accordance with regulations of the United States Tennis Association.