Racquet Rules: Legal Size and Strings
Also known as: maximum racquet length, maximum racket length, legal racquet length, racquet size limit, is my racquet legal, legal tennis racquet, racquet rules, ITF racquet rules, approved tennis balls, illegal racquet
Yes. The ITF Rules cap a racquet at 29 inches (73.7 cm) long and 12.5 inches (31.7 cm) wide. The strung hitting area can be no more than 15.5 inches long and 11.5 inches wide. The strings must form one flat, generally uniform crossed pattern, and no device or energy source may change how the racquet plays.
Appendix II of the ITF Rules sets the racquet limits. Overall length is 29 inches at most, and overall width 12.5 inches. The hitting surface is capped at 15.5 by 11.5 inches. Most adult racquets are 27 inches, so the limit leaves room for longer frames.
The stringing rules matter too. The strings must form a flat pattern of crossed strings. The pattern must be generally uniform and no less dense in the centre than anywhere else. Both faces must play the same. A racquet may have only one set of strings.
Nothing attached to the racquet may change its shape or how it plays during a point. A few things are allowed. Vibration dampeners may sit only outside the crossed strings. Weight may be added to the frame. No battery, solar cell or other energy source may change how it plays.
You may use only one racquet at a time. If you break a string, you may keep playing with that racquet unless the event says otherwise. For balls, any ball used in a tournament under the Rules must be on the ITF's official list of approved balls.
Tips by skill level
Any racquet bought from a normal tennis shop will meet the rules. Put your dampener below the last cross string.
A longer frame adds reach and swingweight, which can help the serve. It can also slow the racquet on fast exchanges, so test it before a match.
Example
Dan wants a 28.5-inch frame for extra reach on his serve. It is legal, because the ITF limit is 29 inches. His friend's homemade double-strung racquet would not be.
Why it matters
An illegal racquet can't be used in sanctioned play. Knowing the limits also helps you judge longer frames and customising choices.
Common mistakes
- Placing a dampener in the middle of the crossed strings, where it is not allowed
- Assuming any frame longer than 27 inches is illegal
- Using a ball that is not on the ITF approved list in a sanctioned tournament
Frequently asked questions
Is there a maximum racquet length in tennis?
Yes. The ITF limit is 29 inches (73.7 cm). The racquet may also be no more than 12.5 inches (31.7 cm) wide.
How long can a tennis racquet legally be?
Up to 29 inches (73.7 cm) under the ITF Rules. Most adult racquets are 27 inches, so longer frames up to that limit are legal.
Where can I put a dampener on my racquet?
Only outside the pattern of crossed strings. Most players place it just below the last cross string near the throat.
Can you play on with a broken string in tennis?
Yes. You may finish the point and keep using the racquet, unless the event organisers forbid it.
Sources
Related terms
- Racquet Specs ExplainedRacquet specs tell you how a frame will play. Head size sets the sweet spot, weight sets stability, and balance shows where the weight sits. Head-light means the balance point is nearer the handle, and each 'point' head-light is 1/8 inch. Length runs from the standard 27 inches to the 29-inch legal limit.
- String PatternString pattern is the number of main (vertical) and cross (horizontal) strings, such as 16x19 or 18x20. An open pattern like 16x19 lets the strings move more for extra spin, launch and power. A dense pattern like 18x20 gives a flatter, more controlled ball and usually lasts longer.
- Vibration DampenerA vibration dampener is a small rubber or silicone device inserted at the bottom of the string bed to reduce the high-pitched "ping" vibration and change the sound of the racquet at contact.
- Tennis Ball TypesExtra-duty balls have thicker felt for abrasive hard courts, and regular-duty balls suit clay and indoor courts. Pressurized balls play livelier but lose bounce over time. Pressureless balls keep their bounce longer but feel heavier and firmer, and they suit practice and ball machines. High-altitude balls are made for play above 4,000 feet.
- Lead Tape: Where to Put ItMost players start at 3 and 9 o'clock on the racquet head, which adds stability on off-centre hits and a little extra pop. Moving it up to 2 and 10 o'clock or to 12 o'clock adds more power and makes the racquet more head-heavy. Tape under the grip makes it more head-light, and matching it to tape on the head keeps the balance the same.
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