Can the ball bounce twice in wheelchair tennis?
B · Beginner · The rules · 2 of 2A wheelchair player must return the ball before its third bounce; the first must land in court, but the second may land in or out. The wheelchair counts as part of the body, so a ball hitting the chair is like one hitting the player, and the player loses the point. Every body rule in tennis applies to the chair.
How it works
- First bounce: in court.
- Second bounce: in or out.
- Third bounce: point lost.
- Chair: part of the body.
- Ball hits the chair: like hitting the player.
- Touching the net with the chair: like touching it with the body.
- One bounce: for able-bodied opponents.
- Volleys: allowed as in tennis.
The glossary has the two-bounce rule, the wheelchair as part of the body, the wheelchair and able-bodied players, the Rules of Wheelchair Tennis, the wheelchair specification and the seat contact.
Tricky cases
The second bounce lands outside the court. Is the ball still live?
Yes.
A ball clips the footrest. Whose point?
The opponent's.
Can a player volley?
Yes.
Does an able-bodied opponent get two bounces?
No.
Why the rule exists
Moving a chair takes longer than running, so a second bounce restores reach.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelchair player | Two bounces | App L 1a |
| Able-bodied player | One bounce | App L 1g |
| Chair | Body | App L 1b |
From the rule book
ITF, Wheelchair Tennis Competition Regulations 2026 (January 2026), Appendix L, rules 1a, 1b, 1d and 1g. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: ITF Wheelchair Tennis Competition Regulations 2026.