Table tennis, or ping pong as many know it, is fast, fun, and incredibly skillful. Whether you're rallying with friends in the basement or leveling up for a tournament, knowing the rules is key to playing fair and improving your game. This guide breaks down the seven core rules of table tennis so you can focus on enjoying the game while staying legit.
Scoring and Game Length
A typical table tennis game is played to 11 points, but you need to win by at least 2 points. If both players hit 10-10 (called a "deuce"), you'll keep playing until someone pulls ahead by two.
Most matches are either the best of 3, 5, or 7 games, depending on how competitive or casual things are. For a quick game, you might play best-of-3, while tournaments often go for best-of-5 or 7. The important thing is to keep track of the score and don't argue about it mid-game – that can ruin the vibe!
Serve Rules
The serve kickstarts each rally, and there are specific rules you need to follow. Here’s how to serve properly in table tennis:
- Rest the ball in the palm of your open hand.
- Toss it straight up at least 16 cm (around 6 inches).
- Hit the ball so it bounces once on your side and then over to your opponent’s side.
For singles, the serve can go anywhere on the table. But in doubles? It has to be diagonal. Learning to serve is essential because it’s the one part of the game you completely control.
Alternate Shots
During a rally, players must take turns hitting the ball. You can’t hit it twice in a row, and you definitely can't skip your turn, no matter how good your spin looks! Each stroke needs to bounce on your side before heading over to your opponent's.
If you’re playing doubles, this alternation extends to your team too. That means you and your partner need to coordinate well—not just for taking turns but for covering the table together.
Net and Ball Interference
What happens if the ball hits the net? It depends on the situation. During a serve:
- If the ball clips the net and still lands in the correct place, it’s called a "let," and you retake the serve.
- If it doesn’t land on the opponent's side, they get the point.
In the middle of a rally, if the ball grazes the net but still lands in play, the rally goes on. And shots that curve around the sides of the net are completely legal as long as they land in-bounds.
Making a Legal Return
Every shot in table tennis needs to follow certain rules. First, the ball has to stay within the playing area, landing on the table. Shots that strike the sides of the table (not the top edge) don’t count.
Another fun fact? If you manage to hit a shot that curves around the net, as long as it lands on your opponent’s side, it’s a valid return. On the flip side, hitting the ball before it bounces on your side is a no-go and results in a lost point.
Hands Off the Table
One golden rule in table tennis is that you can’t touch the table with your free hand. Doing so automatically gives the point to your opponent.
The same goes for bumping or shifting the table during play. Stay steady and controlled when you move, and focus on staying in position to avoid accidental penalties.
Don’t Block the Ball
Obstructing the ball is when you hit it before it has bounced on your side of the table. This is a common beginner mistake, but it’s considered interference, and your opponent earns the point.
That said, if the ball has clearly passed beyond the end line of the table without bouncing, feel free to return it for a potential point. Staying mindful of where the ball is in relation to the table is key to avoiding unnecessary fouls.
Bonus Tips to Improve Your Game
Here are a few extra tips to level up your table tennis skills while following the rules:
- Master how to add spin to the ball, as it can give you an advantage during rallies.
- Work on your footwork so you can quickly get into position for each shot.
- If you’re playing casually without an umpire, agree on basic ground rules beforehand to avoid any disagreements during the match.
These seven rules lay the foundation for enjoying and excelling at table tennis. Whether you’re just starting out, looking to improve your skills, or even preparing for a casual match with friends, knowing the rules ensures the game stays fair and fun for everyone involved.
