Is there a way to convince someone that checking your cell phone in the middle of a match is at least impolite, if not a violation of a rule? One fellow I play with insists on checking his phone during changeovers. When a player has his head buried in his text messages and ballgame scores it negates the social aspect of playing with a bunch of guys. I suppose I could say something to him, but I’m not sure if there’s some universally accepted rule about this. Maybe it’s a part of the younger generation and I’m out of touch?
— R.T. Roznoy, Amherst, MA
I’m more comfortable addressing the Rules of Tennis rather than the Relationships of Tennis, but here goes: USTA Comment 30.1 prohibits the use of cell phones during a match. While the intent is to thwart coaching, a rule’s a rule. But really, what are you going to do about it? Your recourses are:
1
Call an official, if one’s available.
2
Politely ask the player to put it away,
3
Decide not to play with him again if he won’t.
4
Simply not worry about it. Hint: try 2 first, then 4.
Except where noted, answers are based on the ITF Rules of Tennis and USTA's The Code.
Got a question? Email it to: courtofappeals@tennis.com