Tennis etiquette for spectators: How to cheer for your faves on the court

It’s the first time a WTA-sanctioned professional tennis tournament will be played in the country, which makes it doubly important for Filipinos to conduct themselves properly as hosts.

Attending a tennis tournament—whether a local open or a Grand Slam—is a unique sporting experience. The atmosphere is refined, the action is intense, and etiquette plays a crucial role. Unlike raucous team sports, tennis demands respect, timing, and awareness from spectators. Here are eight tips on how to be a courteous and informed spectator at any tennis event.

Respect the silence during play

One of the most distinctive features of tennis is the silence during points. Players rely heavily on concentration, and even a stray comment or phone notification can disrupt their rhythm. Applaud enthusiastically—but only after the point has ended. Avoid talking, moving, or making any noise once the server is preparing to serve until the point ends. 

Know when to move 

Watching tennis is like watching a play. The audience is expected to stay seated during rallies. If you need to leave your seat or return, wait for the changeover. Ushers at major tournaments will often hold foot traffic until play pauses—follow their guidance. Standing and walking at the wrong moment can distract players and annoy fellow spectators. 

Applaud winners, not errors

Cheering is encouraged, but it should be fair and tasteful. Applaud great shots from either player, not just the favorite. It’s bad form to clap when a player makes an error, hits a double fault, or misses an easy shot. Tennis values appreciation of skill over partisan celebration. Sometimes, an over-partisan crowd can work against the favorite, as the rival player can be motivated to try even harder—which might have been the case in Eala’s recent defeat by Alycia Parks, once the American player got over losing 0-6 in the first set and being shell-shocked by the overly loud Filipino crowd in the Australian Open.

Keep phones on silent and turn off your camera flash 

Mobile phones should be switched to silent mode—and remember that phones placed on a seat or armrest can vibrate and buzz loud enough for players to hear. Avoid using the flash when shooting, as it can distract the players. 

Dress appropriately and comfortably 

While you don’t need to be as dressed up as for a golf tournament or a polo match, you shouldn’t be wearing sandos and slippers in a tennis match, either. Consider the weather, as matches can last several hours under the sun. Hats, sunglasses, and sunblock are practical essentials. Just make sure your Jisulife fan isn’t making too much of a racket, as some stadiums or courts can be really quiet.

Follow food and drink etiquette 

Enjoying refreshments is part of the experience, but do so discreetly. Avoid unwrapping noisy packaging or popping a soda can during play. Rowdy behavior is out of place at a tennis match and may result in removal from the venue. 

Respect the officials and line calls 

Disputed line calls are part of the sport, but spectators should never shout advice or opinions. Let the chair umpire and officials manage the match. Comments directed at players or officials are considered poor form and may be penalized. 

Mind the kids

If you’re attending with children, take time to explain tennis etiquette beforehand. And leave the bawling baby at home! Teach kids to watch quietly, clap at the right moments, and remain seated during points. 

Finally, enjoy the elegance, the rhythm, and the genteel traditions of this century-old game. Tennis tournaments are as much about atmosphere as athleticism. By observing proper etiquette, spectators help maintain the traditions that make tennis special. Whether you’re watching from Wimbledon’s Centre Court or a sun-baked outer court in Rizal Memorial, good behavior ensures a better experience for players, officials, and fellow fans alike.