Anyone with a physical disability can play wheelchair tennis. And, it is a sport that can be played with able-bodied players.
It is played on standard regular tennis courts, with no modifications to rackets or balls. The only difference in rules and regulations is that two bounces of the ball are allowed in wheelchair tennis.
Wheelchair Tennis Equipment
Players use lightweight sports wheelchairs that have a few features that differentiate them from standard wheelchairs.
- Cambered, or angled, wheels to increase lateral stability and for quicker turn radius
- No armrests
- No brakes
- No push handles
- Usually have one front caster, like a roller blade wheel (some have two for anti-tip)
- Anti-tip wheel in rear
US Tennis Association Intro to Wheelchair Tennis Equipment (2:46)
From Let’s Roll
Learning Wheelchair Tennis with Pros (1:02)
How to Play Wheel Chair Tennis (1:02)
Basic Adaptive Tennis Strokes and Mobility (10:20)
Adaptive Tennis Backhand (12:22)
Adaptive Tennis Serve (10:50)
Adaptive Tennis Volley (7:00)
Adaptive Tennis Forehand (10:26)
Overhead Adaptive Tennis Smash (3:32)
Return of Adaptive Tennis Serve (10:08)
Basic Adaptive Tennis Strokes in Motion Video (1:12)
Additional Resources
Learn about para sports events to get an idea about what’s out there and to find some ways to participate.
Find adaptive programs near you, through the United States Tennis Association (USTA).
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