RULE BOOK
As of July 2022
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. About Unified Tennis Philippines
1.1 Background / Foreword
1.2 Objectives
1.3 Vision
1.4 Mission
1.5 Core Values
1.6 Affiliation
1.7 Role
II. Duties and Responsibilities for Officials of Tournament
Organizers
2.1 Tournament Supervisor / Director
2.2 Tournament Umpire / Referee
2.3 Chair Umpire
2.4 Linesman
III. Procedures for Officials
3.1 Questions of Fact
3.2 Correcting Errors
3.3 Hindrance
3.4 Continuous Play / Delay of Game
3.5 Player Misconduct on Court
3.6 Immediate Default
IV. General Guidelines for Tournaments
4.1 Player Eligibility
4.2 Scheduling of Tournaments
4.3 Awarding of Full Ranking Points
4.4 Grouping of Tournaments
4.5 Ranking Points
4.6 Withdrawal and Defaults
4.7 Scoring Format
4.8 Questions of Fact
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4.9 Medical Timeout
4.10 Medical Treatment
4.11 Muscle Cramping
4.12 Between Matches
4.13 Toilet / Change of Attire Break
4.14 Suspension and Postponement
V. Code of Conduct
On-site Offences
5.1 Punctuality
5.2 Dress and Equipment
5.3 Time Violation / Delay of Game
5.4 Audible Obscenity (AOB)
5.5 Visible Obscenity (VOB)
5.6 Verbal Abuse (VA)
5.7 Physical Abuse (PHA)
5.8 Abuse of Balls (BA)
5.9 Abuse of Racquets or Equipment (RA)
5.10 Coaching and Coaches (CC)
5.11 Unsportsmanlike Conduct (UNC)
5.12 Best Effort (BE)
5.13 Leaving the Court (LC)
5.14 Failure to Complete the Match (FCM)
5.15 Ceremonies (CER)
5.16 Media Conference (MC)
5.17 Point Penalty Schedule
Aggravated Behavior
VI. Sanctioning of Tournaments
6.1 Classification of Tournaments
6.2 Entry Definitions
6.3 Tournament Application
6.4 Sanction Fee
6.5 Approval
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I. ABOUT UNIFIED TENNIS PHILIPPINES
1.1 Foreword
Unified Tennis Philippines (UTP) is a group operated by the National Lawn Tennis
Association of the Philippines, Inc. It is a non-stock, non-profit, SEC-registered sports
association guided by its mission of supporting the development of Philippine tennis
with the goal of preparing athletes to eventually compete in the global stage and
for more Filipinos to learn and pick up the sport.
UTP prides itself of being an all-inclusive organization, founded and supported by
the country’s passionate tennis patrons and stakeholders.
1.2 Objectives
1.2.1 To implement a national grassroots development program that is
sustainable.

• Organize tournaments for all levels nationwide
• Sponsor elite junior athletes in ATF, ITF and WTA Future Stars
  1.2.2 To introduce the Universal Tennis Rating (UTR) system to all level of players.
  1.2.3 To improve the standing of Philippine Tennis in international competitions.
  1.3 Vision
  Be an avenue for the development of the sport through programs, innovations and
  providing opportunities that make tennis accessible to everyone.
  1.4 Mission
  To be a world class tennis association guided by the mission of serving, developing,
  and promoting tennis in the Philippines. UTP believes in the spirit of volunteerism
  as the backbone of the association.
  1.5 Core Values
   Excellence
   Integrity
   Honesty
   Teamwork
   Patriotism
   Inclusiveness
   Accountability
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  1.6 Affiliation
  UTP is the official partner of Universal Tennis LLC, the company behind the Universal
  Tennis Rating (UTR) which is being quickly adopted by the tennis world due to its
  accurate, real time tennis rating that is purely based on tennis results.
  The Universal Tennis Rating (UTR) is a global rating system that promotes fair and
  competitive play across the tennis world. All players, regardless of age, gender,
  geography or skill level, are rated on the same scale between 1.00 and 16.5 based
  on actual match results.
  1.7 Role
  UTP is a governing body of the game of tennis in the Philippines with its own
  procedures and scoring methods. It, however, also adheres to the International
  Tennis Federation (ITF) in protecting the integrity of the game through
  determination of the Rule of Tennis, Duties and Procedures for Officials and Code
  of Conduct
  Tennis tournaments categorized as Juniors, Professional Open, Legends,
  Recreational events are eligible for sanctioning but must conform to the regulations
  administered by Unified Tennis Philippines (UTP)
  All sanctioned Junior and Professional Open tournaments are eligible for UTP
  Ranking Points in accordance with the following criteria and are conducted and
  administered under the following regulations of UTP.
  II. Duties and Responsibilities for Officials of Tournament Organizers
  (Reference UTP and ITF)
  2.1 Tournament Organizer / Director / Referee
  This designation handles the pre-planning of the tournament which includes
  negotiating for a tennis club facility suitable for a tournament, invitation to players,
  online registration assistance, preparation of the drawsheet, order of play, monitoring
  of entry fee payment and ensure sufficient participation
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  The Tournament Organizer / Director / Referee shall also:
  a. Act as final authority for the interpretation of the applicable tournament rules and
  regulations, rules of tennis, duties and procedures of officials and code of conduct.
  b. Prior to the event, conduct such training sessions and meetings as may be
  necessary to familiarize thoroughly all officials with the applicable rules and
  procedures.
  c. Ensure that all tournament tarpaulins are properly installed, first-aid kits are
  available and that all facilities of the club are clean and functioning.
  d. Handles disbursements of all tournament expenses and liquidates all expenses
  within 48 hours at the conclusion of the tournament.
  e. Extends assistance to players, parents, and coaches if necessary.
  f. Appoint a Chief Umpire / Assistant Tennis Referee and ensure that his/her duties
  and responsibilities are performed properly.
  g. Ensure that there are sufficient ball boys, chair umpires and line umpires for the
  tournament.
  2.2 Chief Umpire / Assistant Tournament Referee
  a. Ensure that chair umpires, line umpires and ball boys are complete and physically
  ready during the duration of the tournament.
  b. Conduct the necessary pre-tournament rules and regulations and scoring format.
  c. Ensure that the court is ready for play, clean, tennis net conforms with the right
  specification, umpire chair and score board are complete.
  d. Schedule the on-court assignments of players, ball boys, chair umpire and line
  umpire.
  e. Evaluate the performance of all on court officials and replace an official if
  necessary.
  f. Check that the correct players are in the court.
  g. Be always present on-site during play.
  2.3 Chair Umpire
  a. Be completely familiar with all aspects of the rules of tennis and the soring format.
  b. Secure a score sheet from the tournament umpire
  c. Be on court prior to the arrival of the players.
  d. Dress properly and with rubber shoes.
  e. Orient the players with the scoring format, rules and prior to play.
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  2.4 Linesman
  a. Carry out his duties in accordance with the instructions of the tournament umpire.
  Note: Tournament Officials referred in the Rule Book are the Tournament Organizer /
  Director / Referee and Chief Umpire / Assistant Tournament Referee, Chair Umpire and
  Linesmen.
  III. Procedures For Officials (Reference UTP and ITF)
  3.1 Questions of Fact
  A question of fact is defined as an issue relating to what actually happened during a
  specific instance. Questions of fact arising during a match shall be determined by the oncourt officials for that match and such determination are binding on the players and the
  tournament umpire.
  A player may request verification by the chair umpire of a call or other determination of
  fact on a point ending call made by an on-court official.
  a. Player Appeal
  A player may never appeal a determination on a Question of Fact to the Tournament
  Organizer / Director / Referee.
  b. Overrule
  The chair umpire may overrule a line umpire only in the case of a clear mistake by the
  line umpire and only if the overrule is made promptly after the mistake is made.
  The Tournament Organizer / Director / Referee or Assistant Tournament Referee has
  the authority to overrule the Chair Umpire or Line Umpire in the case of a clear
  mistake and only if the overrule is made promptly after the mistake is made and only
  if the official is inside the court and saw the point.
  The over-rule if it is a question of fact must be made through the Chair Umpire. If it is
  related to the Rules of Tennis, it can be made directly to the players.
  Clear Mistake on a Call
  If an overrule was made due to a clear mistake on a call, the point will be replayed or
  “Take Two”
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  Promptly
  The Rules of Tennis requires in addition to a clear mistake that the Chair Umpire or
  Tournament Organizer / Director / Referee and Assistant Tournament Referee must
  overrule promptly.
  A Chair Umpire, Tournament Organizer / Director / Referee and Assistant Tournament
  Referee may never make an overrule as a result of a protest or appeal by a player.
  c. Ball mark inspections can only be made on shell courts.
  d. The decision of the Chair Umpire is final.
  3.2 Correcting Errors
  As a principle, when an error in respect of the rules of tennis is discovered, all points
  previously played shall stand. The correction must be applied on the next point to be
  played.
  Examples:
   A player serves or receives in the wrong half of the court during a tie-break
  game
   If a standard game was played instead of a tie-break game or vice versa, if the
  error is discovered after the second point, the match will be continued until
  the set is completed or until the game is tied again, the correct procedure will
  be applied.
   The No Ad rule was omitted. If an ad score was made in the game before it was
  discovered, the next point will be a deciding point.
  3.3 Hindrance
  Outside Hindrance
  If a player is hindered by anything not within his/her control (a ball rolling onto the
  court) during play or during his/her service motion, the point should be replayed.
  Crowd noise, “out” calls from spectators and other similar distractions are not
  considered hindrance and the point should stand as played.
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  Player Hinders Opponent
  If a player hinders his/her opponent, it can be ruled as involuntary or deliberate.
  a. When a player has created an involuntary hindrance (ball falling out pocket, hat
  falling off, etc.), the first time the point should be replayed, and the player should
  be told that any such hindrance thereafter will be ruled deliberate.
  b. Any hindrance caused by a player that is ruled deliberate will result in the loss of a
  point.
  3.4 Continuous Play / Delay of Game
  A maximum pf twenty – five (25) seconds shall elapse from the moment the ball goes
  out of play until the time the ball is struck for the next point, except at a 120 seconds
  or two minutes changeover or set break.
  Changeover break is (ninety (90) seconds) and Set Break is (one hundred (120)
  seconds).
  3.5 Player Misconduct on Court
  The chair umpire has the primary responsibility for the enforcement of the Code of
  Conduct during a match. Code Violation should be assessed immediately when a player
  violates the Code.
  A Code violation should be assessed for each violation. After the match the Chair
  Umpire must still enforce the Code by reporting the facts to the Tournament Organizer
  / Director / Referee.
  3.6 Immediate Default
  The Tournament Organizer / Director / Referee may declare a default for any
  misconduct violation of the Code.
  The election to proceed to an immediate without going through the Point Penalty
  Schedule is a serious action and should not be taken except for severe and flagrant
  misconduct.
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  IV. General Guidelines for Tournaments (Reference UTP and ITF)
  4.1 Player Eligibility
  OPEN tournaments are open to all players thirteen (13) years and above.
  JUNIOR tournaments are open to all participants who meet the age requirement (as
  of December 31 of the applicable year) of the event being entered. A Junior player
  in the 18 and under must be 13 years old based on his / her actual birthdate to be
  able to participate. A player may only join a maximum of two age categories.
  LEGENDS and LEVEL-BASED tournaments are open to all club or recreational players
  subject to the guidelines and format of the tournament.
  For the start of 2019, all Junior, Open and Recreational players will be required to
  be a member of UTP and secure an individual PIN annually.
  New players competing in a tournament for the first time and are not yet in the UTP
  database may be asked by the Tournament Director or Tournament Umpire to
  provide a Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) birth certificate (with official receipt
  from PSA) or a valid passport should there be a question about age. Either of these
  documents must be provided by the player on the next playing day after the inquiry.
  4.2 Scheduling of Tournaments
  Except for national and international designated tournaments (Example: Davis Cup,
  Federation Cup, ITF Futures, etc.), two (2) or more age group tournaments may be
  held in the same week provided the events are not played in the same region.
  4.3 Awarding of Full Ranking Points
  To be awarded full ranking points, a draw in a category of a UTP sanctioned
  tournament must have a minimum of eight (8) entries.
  To accommodate players who enter in tournaments that have difficulty in entries
  and to credit those who entered and won a match, a UTP sanctioned tournament
  with less than eight (8) but minimum of four (4) entries will be accepted, but only
  the Champion and Runner-Up will get points.
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  4.4 Grouping of Tournaments
  4.4.1 OPEN EVENT
  GROUP A GROUP B GROUP C GROUP D GROUP E
  PRIZE
  MONEY
  P 400,000
  and up
  P 300,000
  to P 399,000
  P 200,000
  to P 299,000
  P 100,000
  to P 199,000
  P 50,000
  to P 99,000
  MAXIMUM
  DRAW
  SIZE
  MS – 64
  WS – 32
  MD – 32
  WD – 16
  MS – 32
  WS – 16
  MD – 16
  WD – 16
  MS – 32
  WS – 16
  MD – 16
  WD – 16
  MS – 32
  WS – 16
  MD – 16
  WD – 16
  MS – 32
  WS – 16
  MD – 16
  WD – 16
  Note:
• Any tournament with FULL categories (OPEN & JUNIORS) will be given a Group 1 status.
  4.4.2 JUNIOR EVENT
  GROUP 1 GROUP 2 GROUP 3 GROUP 4 GROUP 5
  MAXIMUM
  DRAW
  SIZE
  BS – 32
  GS – 16
  10U – 16
  BS – 32
  GS – 16
  10U – 16
  BS – 16
  GS – 16
  10U – 16
  No limit No limit
   Organizers who are committed to sponsor 20 Junior tournaments in one
  year will be entitled to four Group 1 events. Location is subject to
  approval of UTP. For tournaments below 20 but more than 15,
  organizers are entitled to three Group 1 events.
   Traditional organizers (CL and PPS) are entitled to additional two Group
  1 events based on the history and heritage of the event.
   Tournaments with an Open and Junior at the same time will be an
  automatic Group 1 event. This is on top of the Group 1 events indicated
  above.
  4.5 Ranking Points
  UTP Local rankings are based on a player’s BEST-10 TOURNAMENTS on a yearly rollover system. This means that a player may join as many tournaments as the player
  wants, but only the BEST-10 results will count. Every week of the year, the previous
  year’s tournament points will be erased once that week passes, and this week’s
  points (or none) of this year will be added (or stay the same).
  This applies to OPEN and JUNIOR rankings.
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  Starting 2019, players with no UTP Pin # and the corresponding requirements (info
  sheet and PSA certificate) will have no points reflected in the UTP Rankings.

4.5.1 OPEN EVENT POINTS TABLE
SINGLES GROUP A GROUP B GROUP C GROUP D GROUP E
Champion 600 400 300 200 100
Runner-Up 450 280 210 140 60
Semi-Finalist 300 160 120 80 40
Quarterfinalist 150 80 60 40 20
Loser in Round-of-16* 75 40 30 20 10
Loser in Round-of-32** 40 – – – –

• ONLY for Round-of-32 draw
  ** ONLY for Round-of-64 draw
  4.5.2 JUNIOR EVENT POINTS TABLE
  SINGLES GROUP 1 GROUP 2 GROUP 3 GROUP 4 GROUP 5
  Champion 200 120 80 60 40
  Runner-Up 150 100 65 50 30
  Semi-Finalist 100 75 50 30 20
  Quarterfinalist 70 50 30 20 10
  Loser in Round-of-16* 40 30 20 10 5
• ONLY for Round-of-32 draw
  Note: Advancement through a bye in the first round will not be equivalent to
  winning a round. Advancement by virtue of default or retirement following the
  commencement of a match will be equivalent to winning a round.
  4.5.3 ITF / ATF POINTS
  To provide equal opportunity for all players nationwide, no extra points will
  be awarded for ITF or ATF points earned.

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4.6 Withdrawals & Defaults
Withdrawals after deadline and defaults by players in any tournament are subject
to penalties to be implemented by UTP.
Furthermore, to give credit to players who enter and show up on their scheduled
match, the player shall earn the point in accordance with the points table, should
the player win by default.
The penalties for default are as follows:
4.6.1 OPEN EVENT
OFFENSE PENALTY POINTS FINE / SANCTIONS
First Offense 20 P500.00
Second Offense 50 P1,000.00 &
Suspension in Two
Consecutive Tournaments
in the Region
Third Offense 100 P2,500 & Suspension in
Four Consecutive
Tournaments in the Region
4.6.2 JUNIOR EVENT
OFFENSE PENALTY POINTS / SANCTIONS
First Offense 20 pts
Second Offense 50 pts & Suspension in Two
Consecutive Tournaments in the Region
Third Offense 100 pts & Suspension in Four
Consecutive Tournaments in the Region
Note:
 This is on a per year basis.
 Player shall submit a valid medical certificate to the Tournament
Organizer / Director / Referee (within 7 days) if default is caused by
sickness/injury for exemption from the sanctions.
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4.7 Scoring Format
4.7.1 SINGLES
 BEST OF 3 REGULAR TIE-BREAKER SETS (1-6)
The first player/team to win six games wins that “Set”, provided there
is a margin of two games over the opponent(s). If the score reaches six
games all, a tie-break game shall be played.
 BEST OF 2 REGULAR TIE-BREAKER SETS (1-6), IF 1-SET ALL (3RD SET),
MATCH TIE-BREAK (1-10).
The player/team who wins first ten points shall win this match tie-break
and the match provided there is a margin of two points over the
opponent(s).
 Best of 3 Regular Tie-Breaker Sets NO-AD Scoring (1-6).
If each player/team has won three points, the score is “Deuce” and a
deciding point shall be played. The receiver(s) shall choose whether to
receive the service from the right half or the left half of the court. In
doubles, the players of the receiving team cannot change positions to
receive this deciding point. The player/team who wins the deciding
point wins the “Game”.
In mixed doubles, the player of the same gender as the server shall
receive the deciding point. The players of the receiving team cannot
change positions to receive the deciding point.
 Best of 3 Shorts Sets (1-4).
The first player/team who wins four games wins that set, provided there
is a margin of two games over the opponent(s). If the score reaches four
games all, a tie-break game shall be played.
 Best of 3 Shorts Sets (1-4) if 1set all (3rd set), Match Tie-Break (1-10).
The player/team who first wins ten points shall win this match tie-break
and the match provided there is a margin of two points over the
opponent(s).
Note: When using the match tie-break to replace the final set:
• The original order of service continues. (Rules 5 and 14)
• In doubles, the order of serving and receiving within the team may be altered,
as in the beginning of each set. (Rules 14 and 15).
• Before the start of the match tie-break, there shall be a 120-seconds set break.
• Balls should not be changed before the start of the match tie-break even if a
ball change is due.
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4.7.2 DOUBLES
 BEST OF 3 REGULAR TIE-BREAKER SETS (1-6)
The first player/team to win six games wins that “Set”, provided there
is a margin of two games over the opponent(s). If the score reaches six
games all, a tie-break game shall be played.
 BEST OF 2 REGULAR TIE-BREAKER SETS (1-6), IF 1 SET ALL (3RD SET),
MATCH TIE-BREAK (1-10)
The player/team who first wins ten points shall win this match tie-break
and the match provided there is a margin of two points over the
opponent(s).
 BEST OF 3 REGULAR TIE-BREAKER SETS NO-AD SCORING (1-6)
If each player/team has won three points, the score is “Deuce” and a
deciding point shall be played. The receiver(s) shall choose whether to
receive the service from the right half or the left half of the court. In
doubles, the players of the receiving team cannot change positions to
receive this deciding point. The player/team who wins the deciding
point wins the “Game”.
In mixed doubles, the player of the same gender as the server shall
receive the deciding point. The players of the receiving team cannot
change positions to receive the deciding point.
 STRAIGHT 8 SCORING (1-8)
The first player/team to win eight games wins the “Game”, provided
there is a margin of two games over the opponent(s). If the score
reaches seven games all, a tie-break (1-7) game shall be played.
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4.8 Medical Timeout
A Medical Time-Out is allowed by the Chair Umpire when the
Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer or Tournament Official has evaluated the player
and has determined that additional time for medical treatment is required. The
Medical Time-Out takes place during a change over or set break, unless the
Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer determines that the player has developed an acute
medical condition that requires immediate medical treatment. The Medical TimeOut begins when the Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer or Tournament Official is
ready to start treatment. At the discretion of the Physiotherapist/Athletic Trainer
or Tournament Official, treatment during a Medical Time-Out may take place offcourt and may proceed in conjunction with a Tournament Doctor.
The Medical Time-Out is limited to three (3) minutes of treatment. However, at
professional events with prize money, the Tournament Umpire may extend the time
allowed for treatment, if necessary.
A player is allowed one (1) Medical Time-Out for each distinct treatable medical
condition. All clinical manifestations of heat illness shall be considered as one (1)
treatable medical condition. All treatable musculoskeletal injuries that manifest as
part of a kinetic chain continuum shall be considered as one (1) treatable medical
condition.
In a Junior Tournament, a parent / coach or guardian may be allowed to enter the
court to look after the player when Tournament Officials deem it necessary.
4.9 Muscle Cramping
A player may receive treatment for muscle cramping only during the time allotted
for change of ends and/or set breaks. Players may not receive a Medical Time-Out
for muscle cramping.
If the player cannot continue playing due to severe muscle cramping, as determined
by the Sports Medicine Trainer and/or Tournament Doctor and/or Chair Umpire,
he/she may forfeit the point(s)/game(s) needed to get to a change of ends or set
break in order to receive treatment. There may be a total of two (2) full change of
ends or set-break treatments for muscle cramping in a match, not necessarily
consecutive.
If it is determined by the Chair Umpire or Tournament Umpire that gamesmanship
was involved, then a Code Violation for Unsportsmanlike Conduct could be issued.
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Penalty
After completion of a Medical Time-Out or medical treatment, any delay in
resumption of play shall be penalized by Code Violations for Delay of Game. Any
player abuse of this Medical Rule will be subject to penalty in accordance with the
Unsportsmanlike Conduct section of the Code of Conduct.
4.10 Between Matches
Except when weather or other unavoidable circumstances cause schedule
disruption, players shall be scheduled for a maximum of one singles match and one
doubles match per day, which shall not be scheduled less than twelve (12) hours
after the completion of the last match of such player on the preceding day or round.
Whenever it is necessary to schedule more than one match in the same day, such
player shall, unless he/she is in singles and doubles finals to be played consecutively,
be given the following minimum rest periods:
If played less than 1 hour 1⁄2 hour rest
If played between 1 and 1 1⁄2 hours 1 hour rest
If played more than 1 1⁄2 hours 1 1⁄2 hours rest
In Junior tournaments, players who are entered in two age-age categories may be
required to play a maximum of 4 matches. (Maximum of 2 matches per age
category)
4.11 Toilet / Change of Attire Break
A player may request permission to leave the court for a reasonable time for a toilet
break, a change of attire break, or both, but for no other reason.
Toilet breaks should be taken on a set break and change of attire breaks must be
taken on a set break.
In singles event, a player is entitled to one (1) break during a best of three (3) sets
match.
4.12 Suspension and Postponement
If the tournament will be suspended due to rain, matches will resume once the
courts are playable or may be transferred to a suitable venue. However, if the bad
weather prevails and will affect the completion of the tournament based on the
original date, the officials may decide to postpone the tournament or cancel it
altogether.
If the rain occurs on the date of the finals, the tournament will resume if it can still be
completed on the same day or otherwise, the officials may declare the finalists as cochampions.
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V. Code of Conduct (Reference UTP and ITF)
5.1 On-Site Offenses
5.1.1 PUNCTUALITY
Matches shall follow each other without delay in accordance with the
announced order of play. The order of play shall be posted at a highly
visible place in a general players’ area as designated by the Tournament
Organizer / Director / Referee. Matches shall be called in accordance with
the order of play using all available and reasonable means. Players shall be
ready to play when their matches are called.
5.1.2 DRESS AND EQUIPMENT
Every player shall dress and present himself/herself for play in a
professional manner. Clean and customarily acceptable tennis attire shall
be worn. Any player who violates this Section may be ordered by the Chair
Umpire or Tournament Official to change his/her attire or equipment
immediately. Failure of a player to comply with such order may result in an
immediate default. (UTP reserves the right to interpret the following rules
so as to give effect to the intent and purposes of these Regulations).
5.1.3 TIME VIOLATION / DELAY OF GAME
Following the expiration of the warm-up period, play shall be continuous,
and a player shall not unreasonably delay a match for any cause.
A maximum of twenty (25) five seconds shall elapse from the moment the
ball goes out of play at the end of the point until the time the ball is struck
for the first serve of the next point. If such serve is a fault, then the second
serve must be struck by the server without delay.
When changing ends, a maximum of ninety (90) seconds shall elapse from
the moment the ball goes out of play at the end of the game until the time
the first serve is struck for the next game. If such first serve is a fault, the
second serve must be struck by the server without delay. However, after
the first game of each set and during a tie-break, play shall be continuous,
and the players shall change ends without a rest period.
At the conclusion of each set, regardless of the score, there shall be a set
break of one hundred and twenty (120) seconds from the moment the ball
goes out of play at the end of the set until the time the first serve is struck
for the next set. If a set ends after an even number of games, there shall
be no change of ends until after the first game of the next set.
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The receiver shall play to the reasonable pace of the server and shall be
ready to receive within a reasonable time of the server being ready. A Time
Violation may be issued prior to the expiration of twenty (20) seconds if
the receiver’s actions are delaying the reasonable pace of the server.
Server The Time Violation shall result in a “fault”
Receiver The Time Violation shall result in a “point penalty”
When a violation is a result of a medical condition, refusal to play or not
returning to the court within the allowed time, a Code Violation (Delay of
Game) penalty shall be assessed in accordance with the Point Penalty
Schedule.
5.1.4 AUDIBLE OBSCENITY (AOB)
Players shall not use an audible obscenity within the precinct of the
tournament site. Violation of this Section shall subject a player to a fine up
to P5,000 for each violation. In addition, if such violation occurs during a
match (including the warm- up), the player shall be penalized in accordance
with the Point Penalty Schedule hereinafter set forth. In circumstances that
are flagrant and particularly injurious to the success of a tournament, or
are singularly egregious, a single violation of this Section shall also
constitute the Major Offence of “Aggravated Behavior” and shall be subject
to the additional penalties hereinafter set forth, therefore.
For purposes of this Rule, audible obscenity is defined as the use of words
commonly known and understood to be profane and uttered clearly and
loudly enough to be heard by the Court Officials or spectators.
5.1.5 VISIBLE OBSCENITY (VOB)
Players shall not make obscene gestures of any kind within the precincts of
the tournament site. In addition, if such violation occurs during a match
(including the warm-up), the player shall be penalized in accordance with
the Point Penalty Schedule hereinafter set forth. In circumstances that are
flagrant and particularly injurious to the success of a tournament, or are
singularly egregious, a single violation of this Section shall also constitute
the Major Offence of “Aggravated Behavior” and shall be subject to the
additional penalties hereinafter set forth, therefore.
For purposes of this Rule, visible obscenity is defined as the making of signs
by a player with his hands and/or racquet or balls that commonly have an
obscene meaning.
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5.1.6 VERBAL ABUSE (VA)
Players shall not at any time directly or indirectly verbally abuse any official,
opponent, sponsor, spectator or other person within the precincts of the
tournament site. In addition, if such violation occurs during a match
(including the warm- up), the player shall be penalized in accordance with
the Point Penalty Schedule hereinafter set forth. In circumstances that are
flagrant and particularly injurious to the success of a tournament, or are
singularly egregious, a single violation of this Section shall also constitute
the Major Offence of “Aggravated Behavior” and shall be subject to the
additional penalties hereinafter set forth, therefore.
For purposes of this Rule, verbal abuse is defined as a statement about an
official, opponent, sponsor, spectator or other person that implies
dishonesty or is derogatory, insulting or otherwise abusive.
5.1.7 PHYSICAL ABUSE (PHA)
Players shall not at any time physically abuse any official, opponent,
spectator or other person within the precincts of the tournament site. In
addition, if such violation occurs during a match (including the warm- up),
the player shall be penalized in accordance with the Point Penalty Schedule
hereinafter set forth. In circumstances that are flagrant and particularly
injurious to the success of a tournament, or are singularly egregious, a
single violation of this Section shall also constitute the Major Offence of
“Aggravated Behavior” and shall be subject to the additional penalties
hereinafter set forth, therefore.
For purposes of this Rule, physical abuse is the unauthorized touching of
an official, opponent, spectator or other person.
5.1.8 ABUSE OF BALLS (BA)
Players shall not violently, dangerously or with anger hit, kick or throw a
tennis ball within the precincts of the tournament site except in the
reasonable pursuit of a point during a match (including the warm-up). In
addition, if such violation occurs during a match (including the warm-up),
the player shall be penalized in accordance with the Point Penalty Schedule
hereinafter set forth.
For the purposes of this Rule, abuse of balls is defined as intentionally
hitting a ball out of the enclosure of the court, hitting a ball dangerously or
recklessly within the court or hitting a ball with negligent disregard of the
consequences.
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5.1.9 ABUSE OF RACQUETS OR EQUIPMENT (RA)
Players shall not violently or with anger hit, kick or throw a racquet or other
equipment within the precincts of the tournament site. In addition, if such
violation occurs during a match (including the warm-up), the player shall
be penalized in accordance with the Point Penalty Schedule hereinafter set
forth.
For the purposes of this Rule, abuse of racquets or equipment is defined as
intentionally and violently destroying or damaging racquets or equipment
or intentionally and violently hitting the net, court, umpire’s chair or other
fixture during a match out of anger or frustration.
5.1.10 COACHING AND COACHES (CC)
Players shall not receive coaching during a match. Communications of any
kind, audible or visible, between a player and a coach may be construed as
coaching. Players shall also prohibit their coaches (1) from using audible
obscenity within the precincts of the tournament site, (2) from making
obscene gestures of any kind within the precincts of the tournament site,
(3) from verbally abusing any official, opponent, spectator or other person
within the precincts of the tournament site, (4) from physically abusing any
official, opponent, spectator or other person within the precincts of the
tournament site and (5) from giving, making, issuing, authorizing or
endorsing any public statement within the precincts of the tournament site
having, or designed to have, an effect prejudicial or detrimental to the best
interest of the tournament and/or of the officiating thereof.
In addition, if such violation occurs during a match (including the warmup), the player shall be penalized in accordance with the Point Penalty
Schedule hereinafter set forth. In circumstances that are flagrant and
particularly injurious to the success of a tournament, or are singularly
egregious, a single violation of this section shall also constitute the Major
Offence of “Aggravated Behavior” and shall be subject to the additional
penalties hereinafter set forth therefore and the Tournament Referee may
order the Coach to be removed from the site of a match or the precincts of
the tournament site and may declare an immediate default of such player.
For purposes of this Rule, a “coach” shall also include any representative
and/or relative of a player.
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5.1.11 UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT (UNC)
Players shall at all times conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike manner
and give due regard to the authority of officials and the rights of
opponents, spectators and others. In addition, if such violation occurs
during a match (including the warm- up), the player shall be penalized in
accordance with the Point Penalty Schedule hereinafter set forth. In
circumstances that are flagrant and particularly injurious to the success of
a tournament, or are singularly egregious, a single violation of this Section
shall also constitute the Major Offence of “Aggravated Behavior” and shall
be subject to the additional penalties hereinafter set forth, therefore.
For the purposes of this Rule, unsportsmanlike conduct is defined as any
misconduct by a player that is clearly abusive or detrimental to the Sport,
but that does not fall within the prohibition of any specific on-site offence
contained herein. In addition, unsportsmanlike conduct shall include, but
not be limited to, the giving, making, issuing, authorizing or endorsing any
public statement having, or designed to have, an effect prejudicial or
detrimental to the best interests of the tournament and/or the officiating
thereof.
5.1.12 BEST EFFORT (BE)
A player shall use his best effort to win a match when competing in an UTP
Tournament. For purposes of this Rule, the Tournament Officials and/or
the Chair Umpire shall have the authority to penalize a player in
accordance with the Point Penalty Schedule. In circumstances that are
flagrant and particularly injurious to the success of a tournament, or are
singularly egregious, a single violation of this Section shall also constitute
the Major Offence of “Aggravated Behavior” and shall be subject to the
additional penalties hereinafter set forth therefore.
5.1.13 LEAVING THE COURT (LC)
A player shall not leave the court area during a match (including the warmup) without the permission of the Chair Umpire. In addition the player may
be defaulted and subjected to the additional penalties for Failure to
Complete Match as hereinafter set forth.
5.1.14 FAILURE TO COMPLETE MATCH (FCM)
A player must complete a match in progress unless he is reasonably unable
to do so. In addition, a violation of this Section shall subject a player to
immediate default and shall also constitute the Major Offence of
“Aggravated Behavior” and shall be subject to the additional penalties
hereinafter set forth, therefore.
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5.1.15 CEREMONIES (CER)
A player participating in the finals of a UTP Tournament must attend and
participate in the final ceremonies after the match unless he/she is
reasonably unable to do so.
5.1.16 MEDIA CONFERENCE (MC)
Unless injured and physically unable to appear, a player or team must
attend the post-match media conference(s) organized immediately or
within thirty (30) minutes after the conclusion of each match whether the
player or team was the winner or loser, unless such time is extended or
otherwise modified by the Tournament Referee for good cause.
5.1.17 POINT PENALTY SCHEDULE
The Point Penalty Schedule to be used for violations set forth above is as
follows:
FIRST Offense WARNING
SECOND Offense POINT PENALTY
THIRD and each Subsequent Offense GAME PENALTY
However, after the third Code Violation, the Tournament Referee shall
determine whether each subsequent offence shall constitute a default.
5.2 Aggravated Behavior
No player or Related Person at any UTP sanctioned tournament shall engage in
“Aggregated Behavior” which is defined as follows:

1. One or more incidents of behavior designated in this Code as constituting
   “Aggravated Behavior”
2. One incident of behavior that is flagrant and particularly injurious to the success
   of an UTP sanctioned event or is singularly egregious.
3. A series of two or more violations of this Code within a twelve-month period
   which singularly do not constitute “Aggregated Behavior” but when viewed
   together establish a pattern that is collectively egregious and is detrimental or
   injurious to the UTP sanctioned tournaments.
   Violation of this section shall subject a Related Person to a maximum penalty of
   permanent revocation of accreditation and denial of access to any of the UTP
   sanctioned events
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   VI. Sanctioning of Tournaments (Reference UTP and ITF)
   6.1 Classification of Tournaments
   6.1.1 OPEN
   Any or all the following: Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Men’s Doubles,
   Women’s Doubles, and/or Mixed Doubles.
   6.1.2 JUNIORS
   Singles: 18 Yrs. & Under, 16 Yrs. & Under, 14 Yrs. & Under and 12 Yrs. &
   Under Boys and Girls categories; and 10 Yrs. & Under Unisex.
   Group 1 tournaments preferably must have Doubles Events, namely 18U &
   14U Boys & Girls, and 10U Unisex.
   6.1.3 LEGENDS
   Age-based starting at 40 and above, singles or doubles.
   6.1.4 RECREATION
   Level based tournaments for Men and Women
   6.1.5 CLUB ORGANIZED SANCTIONED TOURNAMENTS
   May be sanctioned as Group 3, 4 or 5 provided there are at least five (5)
   Singles categories:
   10 & Under Unisex
   14 & Under Boys and Girls
   18 & Under Boys and Girls
   6.2 Entry Definitions
   6.2.1 DIRECT ACCEPTANCE – Players accepted directly into the draw by virtue of
   their UTP ranking as determined by the Tournament Referee.
   64 Draw: 52 Direct Acceptance (DA), 8 Qualifiers (Q), 4 Wildcards (WC),
   2 Special Exempt (SE)
   32 Draw: 24 Direct Acceptance (DA), 4 Qualifiers (Q), 4 Wildcards (WC)
   16 Draw: 10 Direct Acceptance, 4 Qualifiers, 2 Wildcards
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   6.2.2 QUALIFIERS – Players included in the draw as a result of their winning in
   the Qualifying Competition.
   6.2.3 WILDCARDS – Players accepted directly into the Main Draw at the
   discretion of the Tournament Committee, Organizer, and/or Referee.
   6.2.4 LUCKY LOSER – Players who have lost in the final round of the Qualifying
   competition and fill an opening in the first round of the Main Draw. A
   player to be eligible as a Lucky Loser must report to the Tournament
   Referee, sign the Lucky Loser’s sign-in record, must be ready to play within
   15 minutes after the announcement of a default or when the match is
   called, whichever is latest. Once a Lucky Loser forfeits, he/she is no longer
   eligible for lucky loser status.
   For Junior Tournaments, a player is allowed to enter a maximum of 3 Singles
   categories + 1 Doubles category provided, it is clear to the player and the parents
   that the player may play maximum of 2 matches per category, if deemed necessary
   by the Tournament Referee.
   6.3 Tournament Application
   Any request to host an Open or Junior tournament and the sanction of such by UTP
   must be received in writing by UTP not less than thirty (30) days prior to the event.
   6.4 Sanction Fee
   UTP reserves the right to impose a sanction fee of Five Thousand Pesos (P5,000.00)
   per OPEN tournament and Two Thousand Five Hundred Pesos (P2,500.00) per
   JUNIORS tournament. The sanction fee must be paid within five (5) days from
   approval date and is non-refundable.

6.5 Approval
All applicants will receive written notification regarding UTP approval and
acceptance of the event on UTP’s calendar ranking list with the appropriate group
classification and ranking points distribution thereof.
All rules and regulations are approved by Unified Tennis Philippines using the ITF Rulebook as
reference in general. In situations where it is not covered in the UTP Rulebook, reference will be
made using the ITF Rulebook.
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Waiver and Quit Claim:
All players entering Unified Tennis Philippines Sanctioned Tournaments agree as a condition of their
entry,, that for themselves, their executors, administrators, heirs and personal representatives, all
claims of any kind, nature and description are waived, including past, present or future claims and
injuries including COVID -19, if any, sustained in travelling to or from participating in a tournament
organized by the Cebuana Lhuillier Tennis Tour and Palawan Pawnshop Tennis Championships
organizers and sponsor