Etiquette and code of conduct
Source: FIP rulebook, revision 01.01.2026.
Punctuality
Matches follow one another without delay at the announced times. The order of play may not be changed without the authorisation of the tournament Referee.
Clothing
Players must present themselves in appropriate sports clothing and footwear. Swimwear is not permitted. A player who does not meet this requirement will be warned; if they do not remedy it, they will be disqualified. In team competitions matching kit is recommended, though not compulsory.
Identity
Participants must prove, when asked by the Referee, their identity, nationality, age and any other circumstance related to the competition.
Conduct and discipline
Every player must behave courteously and politely throughout the time they remain within the scope of any competition. Coaches must also behave appropriately.
Playing area
Players may not leave the playing area during a match (including the warm-up) without the referee’s authorisation. The playing area comprises the court and the adjoining spaces that bound it.
Coaching and instructions
Each pair may receive advice from a duly accredited coach, always during the rest periods. During time-outs for medical assistance, external interruptions, suspension of the match or toilet breaks, the Chair Umpire determines whether the players may receive instructions.
Prize giving
Players or teams contesting the final must take part in the prize giving at the end of the competition, except in cases of proven injury or illness.
Continuous play and delay
Once the match has started, play must be continuous. No player may delay it beyond the times permitted in Rule 2.
Penalty table for time violations:
| Offence | Penalty |
|---|---|
| 1st offence | Warning for a time violation |
| 2nd offence | If serving: loss of the first serve. If not: loss of a point |
| Subsequent offences | Loss of successive points as determined by the referee |
| Serious repetition | Disqualification |
Obscenity
- Audible obscenity: the use of offensive words loud enough to be heard by the Referee, spectators or organisers.
- Visible obscenity: signs or gestures with the hands, racket or balls that commonly carry an obscene meaning or offend reasonable people.
Ball abuse
Players may not violently hit a ball out of the court, nor pass it aggressively to the other side of the net while it is not in play.
Racket or equipment abuse
Players may not throw or violently strike the racket against the ground, the net, the umpire’s chair, the walls, the metal mesh or any other element of the facilities.
Verbal and physical abuse
Aggressive and unsportsmanlike behaviour of particular gravity, directed at the Referee, the umpire, opponents, a partner, spectators or anyone connected with the tournament, will be penalised. Verbal abuse means insults or any spoken expression carrying inherent contempt or blatant mockery.
Best efforts
All players must use their best efforts to win the match in which they are competing.
Unsportsmanlike conduct
Players must behave in a sportsmanlike manner, avoiding any action contrary to the spirit of the sport or to fair play.