Tennis Racket Size Rules: ITF Specifications Explained

By Tennis Rackets UK Editorial Team · Updated 17 September 2026 · Sources checked

Every racket used in play under the ITF Rules of Tennis must meet the specifications in Appendix II of the ITF Rules of Tennis. The dimensions below come straight from the rules.

Maximum racket dimensions

Standard adult rackets are 27 in (68.6 cm). Extended frames of 27.5–28 in exist, and 29 in is the legal limit.

String bed and frame rules (summary)

The ITF rules also require that:

• The hitting surface is flat and made of a pattern of crossed strings, alternately interlaced or bonded where they cross, and generally uniform.
• The frame and strings have no attached objects or protrusions other than those used to limit or prevent wear, vibration or to distribute weight, and those must be reasonable in size and placement.
• The racket has no device that changes its shape or weight distribution during a point.
• Devices that give communication, advice or coaching during a match are not allowed.

ITF junior racket lengths (10 and under)

Appendix VII of the ITF rules recommends racket lengths for 10-and-under competition:

See our junior racket size guide for how to fit a child.

Court and ball, for context

• Court: 23.77 m long; 8.23 m wide for singles, 10.97 m for doubles. Net 0.914 m at centre, 1.07 m at the posts.
• Ball (Type 2, medium): 56.0–59.4 g, 6.54–6.86 cm in diameter, with a rebound of 135–147 cm.