Do not hit the ball over the back stop or
into the bottom of the net with a jaunty air of "Here you are."
Just hit it slightly out or in the net, and go on about your
business in the regular way. Your opponent always knows when you
extend him this justice, and he appreciates it, even though he
does not expect it. Never do it for effect. It is extremely bad
taste. Only do it when your sense of justice tells you you
should.
The crowd objects, and justly so, to a display of real temper on
the court. A player who loses his head must expect a poor
reception from the gallery. Questioned decisions by a player only
put him in a bad light with the crowd and cannot alter the point.
You may know the call was wrong, but grin at it, and the crowd
will join you. These things are the essence of good
sportsmanship, and good sportsmanship will win any gallery. The
most unattractive player in the world will win the respect and
admiration of a crowd by a display of real sportsmanship at the
time of test.
Any player who really enjoys a match for the game's sake will
always be a fine sportsman, for there is no amusement to a match
that does not give your opponent his every right. A player who
plays for the joy of the game wins the crowd the first time he
steps on the court. All the world loves an optimist.
The more tennis I play, the more I appreciate my sense of humour.
I seldom play a match when I do not get a smile out of some
remark from the gallery, while I know that the gallery always
enjoys at least one hearty laugh at my expense.
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