# Law 8: Server and Receiver (ITF Rules of Tennis)

Tennis · Law 8: Server and Receiver · Insporta Book (https://book.insporta.app/tennis/laws/law-8-server-and-receiver/)

Who the server and the receiver are, that they stand on opposite sides of the net, and where the receiver may stand.

## 8.81 Server and Receiver

The server, the receiver and where each may stand.

### Test 1: The server and the receiver

- The server is whoever puts the ball into play. (Source: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 8)
- The receiver is the player who is ready to return the serve. (Source: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 8)
- Players or teams take opposite sides of the net. (Source: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 8)
- The receiver may take any position on their own side, inside or outside the lines. (Source: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 8, Case 1)
- Any place on the receiver's own side of the net is allowed. (Source: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 8, Case 1)
- The receiver's choice of position stops at the net. (Source: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 8, Case 1)
- Law 8 places no limit on how far forward the receiver waits on their own side. (Source: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 8, Case 1)
- One side puts the ball in play; the other sends it back. (Source: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 8)
- All three are allowed, as each is on the receiver's own side. (Source: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 8, Case 1)
- The receiver may wait anywhere on their own side of the net, but not on the server's side. (Source: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 8, Case 1)

Sources: ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rule 8 (paraphrased in original wording; original questions authored from the Rules, not reproduced)

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