How Tennis Foot Faults Work Explainer
A foot fault is a service fault caused by the server's position or movement before striking the ball. During the service motion, the server may not touch the baseline, the court inside it, the imaginary extensions of the center mark, or the sideline with either foot.
The server must begin at rest behind the baseline and remain within the correct serving area. Small foot movements are permitted, but walking or running during the motion is not. The restriction lasts until the racket contacts the ball; landing inside the court afterward is legal.
A line judge, chair umpire, or authorized review system may call the violation. It counts exactly like any other service fault. On a first serve, the player gets a second serve; on a second serve, the server loses the point with a double fault.
The rule protects the fixed serving distance and prevents a running start. Broadcast angles can mislead because a raised foot may cross above the line without touching it. The decisive evidence is where the feet contact the ground before ball-strike, not where the body leans.
No. Touching the baseline or the court inside it before striking the serve is a foot fault.
Yes. The restriction ends when the racket strikes the ball.
It counts as a service fault, producing a second serve or a double fault depending on the attempt.
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