EXPLAINED: “Time Code Violation” In Tennis For Which Carlos Alcaraz Was Reprimanded At China Open 2024

Carlos Alcaraz entered China Open 2024 fresh from winning the Laver Cup 2024 for Team Europe. He made a successful start to China Open 2024 with a comprehensive win in the opening match, defeating Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in straight sets. 

However, Alcaraz went through several hiccups on his way to the win as he was served with multiple time violations. The match saw the Spaniard involved in a verbal spat with chair umpire Raluca Andrei.  

The 21-year-old received two time violations in the opening set. However, he lost his cool when his second violation came at a crucial juncture, as he lost his first serve during set point. Alcaraz then exchanged words with Andrei saying,’ I’m always very quick, I never get warnings, you gave me two in a set. It’s impossible to play tennis like this.’

While the reprimand cost Carlos Alcaraz his first serve, he went on to win the set 6-4 and the scores were the same in the second. 

The world number three  will next face Tallon Griekspoor in the tournament and has a clean record against the Dutchman, having beaten him thrice in as many meetings. Alcaraz had not yet dropped a set against Griekspoor.

Also Read: Tennis Players To Win Grand Slam Without Dropping A Set

What is Time Code Violation?

Tennis players are given a specific amount of time between points, games, and sets. If a player exceeds the allowed time limit he/she can receive a time violation. ATP and WTA players have a time frame of 25 seconds to serve for the next point. Once the clock crosses 25 seconds, they are awarded a time violation.  

Since 2013, ATP and WTA tour have set rules which state that the first time violation will invite a warning. The second violation will result in a fault for the server, which is what happened in the case of Alcaraz in China Open 2024. The Spaniard lost his first serve as he did not complete his service in the 25 seconds time frame.

The purpose of time violation is to speed up the play and prevent any unnecessary disruptions in the flow of the match. Frequent pauses hamper the rhythm of the game, and therefore are a great hindrance for the opponent player. 

The rule, however, has invited criticism of speeding up the service of players. They might take more than 25 seconds to complete the process due to habit. But on the other hand, the opponent also faces exhaustion when the routine goes on for too long as they get impatient to return the serve. Several players have used this tactic to irritate their opponents.