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Table Tennis Etiquette

  1. Regardless of age or skill level, greet others first before playing.
  2. When the ball hits the net or edge during a match, acknowledge it by saying "Sorry".
  3. Play hard during the game and compliment your opponent's excellent plays.
  4. Avoid playing in a way that mocks your opponent.
  5. Do not mention that you are not feeling well today.
  6. Do not belittle your opponent's play or say they are weak based on your own standards (this behavior is characteristic of inexperienced players).
  7. Do not argue about points that are not net calls.
  8. Do not serve the ball before your opponent is ready.
  9. Follow someone when retrieving the ball (at least partway).
  10. Do not win five games in a row without allowing your opponent a chance.
  11. Avoid giving your opponent too many difficult serves when it’s not a match.
  12. Do not serve weak serves as if you are letting your opponent to win.
  13. Accept defeat gracefully when you lose (do not make faces when you lose).
  14. Do not taunt your opponent when you win.
  15. Wear appropriate sportswear and table tennis shoes while playing.
  16. When there is a significant rating difference, lower-ranked players should politely ask for a reasonable handicap.
  17. Do not take calls or chew gum during the match.
  18. Prepare the table tennis ball in advance.
  19. Do not speak informally from the start, show respect to elders, and greet others at the end.
  20. Always carry a towel and wipe your sweat from the table or floor.
  21. Do not grumble during the match or comment on your opponent's mistakes.
  22. Follow the rules for serving (lift the ball 6 inches or more, adhere to open serve rules).
  23. Avoid distracting movements, such as wildly swinging a racket.
  24. Do not hit hard during warm-ups or suddenly give a backhand without warning.
  25. During the match, do not talk to others nearby, and avoid looking around (do not play while watching people passing by).
  26. When teaching inexperienced players, think about what they want to learn rather than unilaterally imposing your style.
  27. Do not quit after only one game if it’s not enjoyable, or stop playing when you are about to lose against a less experienced player.
  28.  Do not frown when your partner makes a mistake in doubles, and avoid playing solo without considering your partner.
  29.  Participate in external tournaments to improve skills and foster camaraderie, not just play in the table tennis hall.
  30. Do not only play with experienced players for your improvement, and don’t cling to them for too long (ask after about 15 minutes if you can continue playing).
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