Served with Andy Roddick Umpires, Etiquette, & The Future of the One-Handed Backhand | Q&Andy
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Feb 19, 2026 A candid dive into tennis officiating and court etiquette, from how to professionally contest calls to whether umpires should be former players. Anecdotes about marathon-match stamina and Mohammed Lahyani’s controversial pep talk add color. A fun debate on why the one-handed backhand is fading and if slicing can fill its role.
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How To (Not) Argue With Umpires
- You generally can't win an in-match argument with an umpire unless the supervisor comes out.
- Lodge formal complaints later but expect little feedback or consequences for officials.
Umpires Are Traffic Controllers Now
- Modern chair umpires mainly manage pace and keep the peace rather than call every line.
- Review systems at big events reduce line-call controversies but smaller events still lack technology.
Playing Experience Isn’t Required
- Don't assume most umpires are former players; it's rare and unrealistic.
- Judge officials by their competence, not by whether they've played professionally.