Can wheelchair tennis players lift off the seat?
I · Intermediate · The rules · 2 of 3A player loses the point if no buttock is on the seat when hitting. Feet and the lower body may not be used against the ground or wheels to serve, hit, turn or stop. Strapping is allowed. A player who cannot push the wheels may propel with one foot, kept off the ground during the swing and serve.
How it works
- Seat: one buttock on it when hitting.
- Seat height: fixed.
- Strapping: allowed.
- Feet: not for braking or turning.
- Lower extremities: buttocks to feet.
- Foot propulsion: only without push capacity.
- Foot off the ground: during the swing and serve.
- Lifting doubts: other officials may help judge.
The glossary has the seat contact, the use of feet and lower extremities, the propelling the chair with a foot, the wheelchair specification, the two-bounce rule and the service (wheelchair tennis).
Tricky cases
A player rises off the seat to smash. Point?
Lost.
A foot drags to stop the chair. Point?
Lost.
Can a player be strapped in?
Yes.
The chair umpire cannot see the seat. What happens?
A line or off-court umpire may help, after telling the players.
Why the rule exists
Standing would add height and reach. Using feet to brake would give control others lack.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Seat | One buttock | App L 1d |
| Feet | Not used | App L 1d |
| Foot propulsion | Limited exception | App L 1f |
From the rule book
ITF, Wheelchair Tennis Competition Regulations 2026 (January 2026), Appendix L rules 1d to 1f and Regulation 84.1.3. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: ITF Wheelchair Tennis Competition Regulations 2026.