How do you serve in wheelchair tennis?
I · Intermediate · The rules · 1 of 3The server must be still before serving, then may make one push before hitting. Throughout the serve the wheels may touch only the area behind the baseline, within the extensions of the centre mark and sideline. A Quad player who cannot serve normally may drop the ball or have it dropped, then hit after a bounce.
How it works
- Before: stationary.
- Push: one allowed.
- Wheels: behind the baseline.
- Sideways: within centre mark and sideline.
- Quad drop serve: if needed.
- Helper: may drop the ball.
- Same method: all match.
- Helper's clothing: follows the rules.
The glossary has the service (wheelchair tennis), the service by a Quad player, the Quad, the use of feet and lower extremities, the wheelchair as part of the body and the propelling the chair with a foot.
Tricky cases
A server pushes twice. Fault?
Yes.
A wheel touches the baseline during the serve. Fault?
Yes, like a foot fault.
Can a Quad player switch serving method mid-match?
No.
Can a helper drop the ball?
Yes, for a Quad player.
Why the rule exists
One push gives power without a running start. The drop serve lets players with limited hand function start points.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| All players | One push | App L 1c |
| Quad | Drop serve | App L 1c |
| Helper | Kit rules | Reg 44 |
From the rule book
ITF, Wheelchair Tennis Competition Regulations 2026 (January 2026), Appendix L rule 1c and Regulation 44. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: ITF Wheelchair Tennis Competition Regulations 2026.