What is the first action an umpire takes when penalising a player?

The first action an umpire takes when penalising a player is to blow the whistle. This auditory signal alerts everyone on the court that a penalty has been called and is crucial for drawing attention to the infraction. Blowing the whistle is a fundamental part of the umpire's role in ensuring that the game is conducted fairly and that players are aware of any breaches of the rules.

Once the whistle is blown, it provides a clear indication that play has stopped, allowing the umpire to manage the situation appropriately—whether it’s to communicate the nature of the penalty, signal to the timekeeper, or call out the player’s name if necessary. Therefore, the whistle is the critical first step in the process of sanctioning a player, as it establishes the authority of the umpire and the seriousness of the infraction.