According to the World Book Dictionary, etiquette is "the conventional rules for conduct or behavior in a polite society." As such, it’s important to know what is appropriate behavior on the tennis court before venturing into the actual playing of the game. The following are the rules of etiquette generally adhered to when playing tennis:

• When players are playing a point, don’t distract them by walking behind their court.
• Never interrupt a point for any reason (unless a safety issue has arisen).
• When your opponent serves into the net, don’t call "fault;" it’s unnecessary.
• Try not to make too much noise on your court; you may distract your opponent or even people on the next court.
• Wear the correct footwear and clothing as advised in the club regulations--most clubs require players to wear shoes that are non-marking.
• Cell phones should be switched off while on court.
• Do not continually challenge your opponent’s line calls. If she is that bad at line decisions, don’t bother to play with her again.
• Always at the end of your game leave the court as clean and tidy as you would want to find it.
• Always vacate your court two to three minutes before the end of your allocated booking time, to enable new players to begin on the hour.
• If you are not sure of any rule or regulation, ask your playing partner. If he doesn’t know, try to find out from someone who does. Don’t rely on a person who seems vague or just thinks he knows.
• If a ball lands near the line and you are not sure whether it is in or out, discuss it with your opponent and come to an agreement (possibly play it again). Never guess in your own favor. It can be seen as cheating.
• Always be a good sport and enjoy the challenge of competition. Remember that there’s no disgrace in losing. Try to reach your personal best and you will enjoy the match. Tennis is a wonderful game, so have fun!

The above rules of etiquette list was reproduced from "Improve Your Tennis I.Q." by Charles Applewhaite, p. 123.