Table tennis aims to score points by hitting the ball over the net into the opponent’s side, making it hard for them to return. The first player to reach the set point goal (usually 11 or 21) with a 2-point lead wins.
The Table:
The game is played on a rectangular table (9 feet long, 5 feet wide, 2.5 feet high) with a net 6 inches above the surface, dividing it into two halves.
Basic Rules:
- Serve: The ball must be tossed at least 6 inches high, serve diagonally, and bounce on the server's side first.
- Rally: Players take turns hitting the ball back, and it must bounce once on each side before volleys.
- Scoring: Points are scored when the opponent fails to return the ball or violates rules.
- Fouls: Rules include not serving correctly, hitting out of bounds, or touching the net.
- Service Rotation: Players alternate serving every two points, serving from the right on even points and left on odd points.