SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/tennis-touch-net-lose-point

During a rally, your racket brushes the net. What happens?

You lose the point. No touching the net while the ball is in play.

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  1. Nothing if it was an accident
  2. You lose the point ✔
  3. The point is replayed

Why: If you, your racket or anything you wear touches the net, net posts or straps while the ball is in play, you lose the point, even by accident.

Huh, didn't know that: Timing matters: if the ball has already bounced twice or gone out, it is no longer in play, so touching the net then does not cost the point.

The dad joke
Why are fish bad at tennis? They don't like getting close to the net.
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References

Answer: You lose the point. If you, your racket or anything you wear touches the net, net posts or straps while the ball is in play, you lose the point, even by accident.

  1. ITF 2026 Rules of Tennis, Rule 24 Player Loses Point www.itftennis.com/media/7221/2026-rules-of-tennis-english.pdf
    touches the net, net posts/singles sticks, cord or metal cable, strap or band
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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Test yourself in the game

Sports & FitnessCan you reach over the net and hit the ball before it crosses to your side?Sports & FitnessYou hit the ball on your side, and your racket follows through over the net. Is that OK?Sports & FitnessDuring a rally, your shot clips the net and drops in. What happens?

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