Table Tennis Rules

Scoring and Games

 Games are played to 11 points

 Players serve two serves each, alternating. A player does not have to win specifically off

their own serve in order to win a point

 If a game ties at 10-10, a player must win by 2 points. In this situation, players serve one

serve each, alternating

 In competition, games are played best of 5 (first to win 3 games) or best of 7 (first to win 4

games). Social games can also be played best of 3 (first to win 2 games)

Legal Serving

 You must throw the ball up straight, from a flat palm, at least 6 inches (16cm)

 Your toss and service contact must be behind the table surface (not over)

 You cannot hide the ball from the ball toss to contact, with any part of your body

 If the ball hits the net during service, it is a let, the point is replayed. There is no limit or

point deductions for let serves.

Service

 The ball must first bounce on your side and then in your opponents. Your opponent must

allow the ball to hit their side of the table before trying to return this.

 The ball must pass cleanly over the net – if it ‘clips’ the net and goes over, it is a ‘let’ and the

serve is retaken. If it hits the net and doesn’t go over, the point goes to the other

player/team. There are no second serves.