Mastering Sportsmanship: How to Handle Real
Tennis Challenges with Respect and Focus

Tennis is a sport of skill, strategy, and passion, but it’s also a game of character and tennis etiquette. At USTA Southern California, we believe mastering sportsmanship in tennis is just as important as perfecting your serve or groundstrokes. Whether you’re a junior tennis player, an adult competitor, or a parent on the sidelines, knowing how to handle challenging moments with respect and grace will elevate your game and strengthen our Southern California tennis community.

Below, we explore three real-life tennis scenarios many players face. Each tells a story and offers practical ways to respond with respect and focus, because good sportsmanship truly changes the game.

Trusting Your Opponent’s Calls

In the tense semifinal of a Junior Sectionals tournament, Player A leads 5-4 in the third set and hits what looks like a match-winning shot down the line. Player B calls the ball “out.” With no line judge present, the players must rely on each other’s honesty.

Poor Sportsmanship Response: Player A reacts by loudly arguing, questioning Player B’s integrity, and showing negative body language. This behavior disrupts focus, creates tension, and spoils the match atmosphere for both players.

Good Sportsmanship Response: Player A calmly says, “I thought that was in, but I respect your call.” They let go of the disputed point and refocus on the next one, maintaining composure and respect.

Why It Matters: Tennis depends on trust and honesty, especially when officials aren’t present. Questioning your opponent’s calls breeds frustration and distraction. Learning to control emotions and accept calls respectfully is essential to mental toughness and true sportsmanship.

> TIPS TO TRY

– Pause before responding to a disputed call.
– Use calm phrases like, “Good call” or “Thanks for your honesty.”
– Remember the game is bigger than any single point, stay focused on playing your best.

Trusting your opponent’s calls shows respect, maturity, and a love for the game, qualities that define great players on and off the court.

Showing Empathy During Injury Timeouts

You’re playing a heated adult league match and trailing in the score, but staying focused on your next point. Suddenly, your opponent calls for a medical timeout, claiming a leg cramp. The timing feels suspicious, especially since you had gained momentum.

Poor Sportsmanship Response: You roll your eyes, mutter under your breath, and complain to the official. You show impatience near the medical staff and continue questioning your opponent’s injury even after winning the match, making sarcastic remarks.

Good Sportsmanship Response: You show genuine concern by asking if your opponent needs water or help stretching. You use the break to stay warm and mentally reset. You trust that your opponent is acting in good faith and focus on playing your best when the match resumes.

Why It Matters: Injuries are a natural part of sport. Showing empathy and respect for your opponent’s body is essential to good sportsmanship. Supporting others—even at inconvenient times—helps maintain a positive and respectful tennis community.

> TIPS TO TRY

– Treat injury calls as genuine unless there’s a clear reason to doubt.
– Offer a kind word or gesture when appropriate.
– Use injury breaks as an opportunity to practice positive self-talk and prepare mentally for your next point.

Showing empathy during injury timeouts reflects respect, compassion, and integrity, qualities that help make tennis welcoming and fair for all players.

Managing Frustration and Staying Positive

In a grueling pro series final, you hit a shot that just clips the line and is called out. Frustration surges, you slam your racket into the ground, shattering it. The tension could easily spiral out of control, affecting both your play and your opponent’s.

Poor Sportsmanship Response: You continue to complain loudly, refuse to shake hands after the match, and create an awkward atmosphere. Your negativity affects the overall experience for both players.

Good Sportsmanship Response: You take a deep breath and use a few seconds between points to mentally reset. Positive self-talk replaces anger as you refocus and maintain competitive intensity. Win or lose, you shake your opponent’s hand respectfully and acknowledge the effort both of you gave.

Why It Matters: Tennis is an emotional sport, but how you manage your emotions impacts your performance and reflects your character. Developing mental reset techniques not only boosts your game but also demonstrates respect and sportsmanship.

> TIPS TO TRY

– Practice a quick mental reset: take three deep breaths between points.
– Use positive self-talk such as “Stay calm” or “Focus now.”
– Always respect your opponent, regardless of the outcome.

Managing frustration with composure is a vital skill for tennis players at every level. It keeps the game competitive, enjoyable, and honorable.