The Unwritten Rules of Tennis Practice Courts

During the US Open, the practice courts become a microcosm of the competitive nature of professional tennis. On a Wednesday afternoon, Daniil Medvedev and Alexander Zverev found themselves in a tense situation as they attempted to extend their practice session beyond the allotted hour. Their struggle to relinquish the court to Danielle Collins and Christian Harrison, who were scheduled to begin their practice, highlights the unspoken etiquette that governs these spaces. Players are expected to adhere to their time slots, yet some, like Gabriel Diallo, express frustration over peers who overstay their welcome, stating, “Some people abuse their time.”

The Guardian

The allocation of practice time and the quality of courts can vary significantly based on a player's ranking. Jessica Pegula, who experienced a shift in treatment after breaking into the top ranks, recalls her earlier days: “I was back in the park smelling all the weed and all the smells New York City has to offer.” She notes that the courts available to lower-ranked players differ markedly from those used by top competitors, leading to feelings of unfairness. Pegula acknowledges, however, that higher-ranked players may have earned their privileges.

The Guardian

The practice court environment is often fraught with tension, particularly when players exceed their time limits. Coco Gauff describes the pressure of having to finish strong while being aware of waiting players. “The final point usually ends up being either terrible or unbelievable,” she remarks. Players like Pegula and Gauff adopt proactive strategies to address time violations, with Pegula humorously stating, “You go up and stand there, bouncing the ball. Like, ‘OK, it’s time to get off.’”

The Guardian

Reactions to players who overstay their practice time vary. Cameron Norrie recalls waiting for Novak Djokovic and Zverev to conclude their session, feeling the pressure to intervene but ultimately deferring to his trainer's reluctance. Diallo, on the other hand, takes a more passive approach, choosing to observe rather than confront. He reflects, “If you’re finishing up your serves, OK fine. I don’t think at this stage it’s going to make a difference how you’re going to play.”

The Guardian

The practice court dynamics at major tournaments reveal a complex interplay of competition, hierarchy, and etiquette. While players strive to optimize their practice time, the unwritten rules surrounding court usage foster both camaraderie and tension. As players navigate these interactions, the balance between asserting their needs and respecting their peers remains a critical aspect of their professional experience.

The Guardian