Table tennis, also known as ping-pong, is a popular sport that is played by millions around the world. The rules of table tennis are designed to ensure fair play and consistent scoring. Here is a detailed explanation of the rules of table tennis in English, with examples to illustrate key points.
1. The Playing Equipment: Table tennis is played with a lightweight, hollow ball made of plastic, a racket (also known as a paddle or bat), and a table divided by a net. The table is 2.74 meters (9 feet) long, 1.525 meters (5 feet) wide, and 76 centimeters (2.5 feet) high.
2. The Objective: The objective of the game is to hit the ball over the net and onto the opponent's side of the table. Players score points by making their opponents unable to return the ball legally.
3. Scoring System: Table tennis follows a scoring system where the first player to reach 11 points wins the game, provided they have at least a 2-point lead. If both players reach 10 points, the game continues until one player leads by 2 points.
4. Serving:
- The Serve: The server must stand behind the baseline and serve the ball so that it first touches their side of the table and then goes over the net to the opponent's side. The ball must be thrown into the air and hit with the paddle.
- Service Rotation: After serving, players alternate serving every two points. The receiver becomes the server for the next game, and the server for the first game of the next set is determined by a coin toss.
Example: Player A serves the ball. If Player A scores a point, they serve again. If Player B scores a point, they become the server and serve twice before Player A gets another chance to serve.
5. Legal Returns:
- Returning the Ball: A player must return the ball after it bounces on their side of the table. The ball must be hit with the paddle so that it goes over the net and onto the opponent's side.
- Double Hits: A player cannot hit the ball twice in succession. If a player does this, they lose a point.
Example: Player A hits the ball, but it bounces twice on their side before they can hit it back. Player A loses a point because of the double bounce.
6. Faults: Several actions can result in a fault:
- Failing to serve the ball correctly.
- Hitting the ball twice.
- Not hitting the ball with the paddle.
- Touching the net with the paddle or body.
- The ball touching any part of the player's clothing or equipment.
Example: Player A serves the ball, but it lands on their side of the table first. This is a fault, and Player B gets a point.
7. Game Variations:
- Singles and Doubles: Table tennis can be played as singles or doubles. In doubles, each player takes turns hitting the ball, and they must alternate hitting the ball after every serve.
- Deuce and Advantage Scoring: In some cases, a "deuce" system is used, where if the score reaches 10-10, the player who first reaches 11 points wins, without needing a 2-point lead.
Example: In a doubles match, Player A1 serves to Player B1. If Player B1 returns the ball, Player A2 must hit it next. If Player B2 returns the ball, Player A1 must hit it, and so on.
8. Penalties and Sanctions: Players can be penalized for various infractions, such as not following the correct serving procedure or delaying the game. Points can be deducted, or players can be disqualified for severe offenses.
In summary, table tennis is a fast-paced, highly strategic sport with specific rules designed to ensure fair competition. Understanding these rules is crucial for players to participate effectively and enjoy the game to its fullest.