Here are three key rules of ping pong, also known as table tennis, based on the provided references:
Essential Ping Pong Rules
Here are three crucial rules to understand when playing ping pong:
1. Scoring and Game End
- Games are played to 11 points. This means the first player to reach 11 points, with a margin of at least 2 points, wins the game.
- If the score reaches 10-10, then a player must win by 2 points. For example, 12-10, 13-11, etc.
2. Serving Order
- Alternate serves every two points. Each side of the table takes turns serving two points at a time. This ensures that the serve is consistently rotated between players.
3. Proper Serve Technique
- Toss the ball straight up when serving. During the serve, the ball must be tossed upward, without spin and at least 6 inches, before striking it with the paddle.
- The serve can land anywhere in singles Meaning the serve does not need to land in the right hand court, only in the opponents half of the table.
- Doubles serves must go right court to right court. When playing doubles, the ball must be served from the server's right side of the table into the receiver's right side of the table.
These rules form the foundation of a fair and enjoyable game of ping pong, whether played casually or competitively.
