International rules state 6m with a minimum of 5m. This means most events use 5m as the standard with many who have the space making the end free zone 6 or 7 metres to give more room for service. However we often see side courts of World Tour events and even some centre courts in city centres with free zones of 4 metres or less.
From my first hand experience and observation I would strongly suggest the following free zones:
International: 7 metres minimum / 8 metres maximum in all directions. The game has changed and our athletes are fitter and faster than ever. They can easily cover the 5 metres and could go further in making spectacular saves. Most often these chases are out the sides of the courts not the back so it's the sides that need the additional metres most. 7-8 metres all around will increase the number of spectacular plays we all love so much while still keeping the fans as close as possible. All courts should fall under this guideline, not just centre court.
National: 5 metres minimum.
Amateur competition: 4-5 metres ideal but 3 metres minimum.
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