top of page
Virginia Korean Table Tennis Association

Table Tennis Etiquette
-
Regardless of age or skill level, greet others first before playing.
-
When the ball hits the net or edge during a match, acknowledge it by saying "Sorry".
-
Play hard during the game and compliment your opponent's excellent plays.
-
Avoid playing in a way that mocks your opponent.
-
Do not mention that you are not feeling well today.
-
Do not belittle your opponent's play or say they are weak based on your own standards (this behavior is characteristic of inexperienced players).
-
Do not argue about points that are not net calls.
-
Do not serve the ball before your opponent is ready.
-
Follow someone when retrieving the ball (at least partway).
-
Do not win five games in a row without allowing your opponent a chance.
-
Avoid giving your opponent too many difficult serves when it’s not a match.
-
Do not serve weak serves as if you are letting your opponent to win.
-
Accept defeat gracefully when you lose (do not make faces when you lose).
-
Do not taunt your opponent when you win.
-
Wear appropriate sportswear and table tennis shoes while playing.
-
When there is a significant rating difference, lower-ranked players should politely ask for a reasonable handicap.
-
Do not take calls or chew gum during the match.
-
Prepare the table tennis ball in advance.
-
Do not speak informally from the start, show respect to elders, and greet others at the end.
-
Always carry a towel and wipe your sweat from the table or floor.
-
Do not grumble during the match or comment on your opponent's mistakes.
-
Follow the rules for serving (lift the ball 6 inches or more, adhere to open serve rules).
-
Avoid distracting movements, such as wildly swinging a racket.
-
Do not hit hard during warm-ups or suddenly give a backhand without warning.
-
During the match, do not talk to others nearby, and avoid looking around (do not play while watching people passing by).
-
When teaching inexperienced players, think about what they want to learn rather than unilaterally imposing your style.
-
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.
-
Do not frown when your partner makes a mistake in doubles, and avoid playing solo without considering your partner.
-
Participate in external tournaments to improve skills and foster camaraderie, not just play in the table tennis hall.
-
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).
bottom of page