Table tennis in racketlon

Table tennis is the first sport played in a racketlon game. It is played in 21 points, with each player serving twice. It is often the main weakness of racketlon players, as, not being a string racket sports, it is very different from the other 3 sports. Thanks to effects and serves, table tennis specialist can make a bigger difference with its opponents than in other racketlon sports.

Rules of Table tennis

The game is played on a rectangular table measuring 2.74 meters in length, 1.525 meters in width, and 76 centimeters in height. The table is divided into two halves by a net standing 15.25 centimeters high. Players use small, lightweight rackets to hit a celluloid or plastic ball weighing 2.7 grams. The equipment, including the table, net, rackets, and ball, must meet specific standards set by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF).

Basic Rules and Scoring

A match is played as the best of any odd number of games, commonly best of five or seven. Each game is played to 11 points, and a player must win by at least two points. Service alternates every two points, except when both players reach 10 points (deuce), at which point service alternates after every point. The player who first reaches 11 points wins the game, unless the score is tied at 10-10, in which case play continues until a two-point lead is achieved.

Service Rules

The service begins with the ball resting freely on the open palm of the server's stationary hand. The server then tosses the ball vertically upwards without imparting spin, so that it rises at least 16 centimeters. As the ball falls, the server hits it so that it touches their side of the table before going over the net to touch the receiver's side. If the ball touches the net assembly but still touches the receiver's side, the service is considered a let and is retaken.

Return Rules

After the service, the receiver must return the ball so that it touches the opponent's side of the table. If the server fails to make a legal service, or if the receiver fails to return the ball, their opponent scores a point. Following the service return, players hit the ball back and forth until one fails to make a legal return.

Doubles Play

In doubles, the game follows the same basic rules with some variations in service. The service must go from the server's right court to the receiver's right court. After each service, players must alternate hits with their partner. The sequence of serving and receiving changes after each game, ensuring that each player serves to both opponents and receives from both opponents during the match.

Illegal Moves and Penalties

Several actions are considered illegal in table tennis and result in the opponent scoring a point. These include failing to make a correct service or return, hitting the ball twice in succession, obstructing the ball, and touching the table with the free hand during play. The ITTF rules provide comprehensive guidelines on legal and illegal moves to maintain fairness and sportsmanship.