line callsself-officiatingetiquette
Why an Uncertain Ball Is In During Self-Officiated Play
Do not call balls on the opponent's side, and call out only the balls you clearly see out on your side.
Start with this check
Guessing that a close ball was out or making a late call damages both trust and the flow of the match.
Try these steps in order
- Take responsibility for the lines on your side and immediately call only a ball you clearly see out.
- When you are uncertain, give the opponent the benefit of the doubt and treat the ball as in.
- Have the server confirm the score audibly and resolve disagreements before the next point.
Bottom line
The standard in self-officiated play is not your chance of winning; it is what you clearly saw and the benefit of the doubt owed to your opponent.
Reviewed sources
Technical evidence is shown separately from community topic signals.
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