Table Tennis Rules Basics

Basic Rules of Table Tennis: Duration, Serve, Points, and Acceleration

Learn the essential rules of table tennis (or ping-pong): match duration, serving rules, scoring points, ball bounces, singles vs doubles play, and the acceleration rule. Master these basics to fully enjoy this thrilling sport!

Match Duration in Table Tennis

A match usually consists of 5 games of 11 points each, with the winner being the first to win 3 games. In high-level competitions, matches can have 7 games, requiring 4 victories to win. Previously, games were played to 21 points, but the rule changed to make matches more dynamic.

Table Tennis Serving Rules

To make a valid serve:

• The ball and paddle must remain above the table and behind the end line.
• The ball must always stay visible.
• The hand must be open and facing upward.
• The ball must be tossed vertically at least 16 cm before being struck.

Ball Bounce Rules: Singles vs Doubles

In singles: Serve to any part of the opponent’s side, but the ball must bounce once on each side. If it touches the net, it’s a “let,” and the serve is replayed.
In doubles: The serve must be diagonal, from the right side to the opposite corner.

How to Score a Point?

A player scores a point if:

• The opponent fails to return the ball before it bounces twice.
• The ball they return doesn’t hit the other side.
• The opponent touches the ball more than once or without letting it bounce.
• The opponent moves the table during play.

Playing Singles or Doubles

In singles: After serving, players alternate returns. The ball can touch the net as long as it bounces correctly on the opponent’s side.
In doubles: Serves are diagonal, and players alternate hits. Each player serves twice in a row, except at 10 points, where serves alternate every point.

The Acceleration Rule in Table Tennis

If a game lasts more than 10 minutes with fewer than 18 points scored, the referee may apply the acceleration rule. From then on:

• If a player returns the ball 13 times without the opponent scoring, they win the point.
• Serves alternate after each point.

This rule stays active for the remainder of the match.

Ready to play? Master these rules and shine in table tennis, whether for fun or in competition!

Featured Image: Mamba Blades “Table Tennis Rules”