Ball Out

Definition

A ball is ruled out (out of play) when it lands outside the court boundaries (beyond the sideline or baseline), passes below the net without clearing it, bounces twice on the same side consecutively, or a player commits a striking violation. Balls landing on the boundary lines are considered in bounds. Players may stand and hit out-of-court balls (one foot in, one extended out), but if a ball passes beyond the boundaries after being struck, it is out. Out-of-bounds calls are made by line judges or the chair umpire. In professional play, electronic line-calling systems (Hawk-Eye) may be used for disputed calls. An out call results in the loss of the point for the player who hit the ball out. Calls are final unless challenged by a player with a review opportunity.

Origin: Standard tennis rule; padel adapted it to account for wall rebounds and unique boundaries.