Etiquette

Greet others first, whatever their age or level, and greet your opponent before you play.

Speak politely from the start, show respect to elders, and say thank you when you finish.

When the ball clips the net or the edge, acknowledge it with a quick "Sorry."

Play your best and compliment your opponent's good shots.

When your opponent goes to fetch the ball, walk at least partway with them.

Wear proper sportswear and table tennis shoes.

Have a ball ready before you play.

Always carry a towel and wipe your own sweat off the table and floor.

During warm-up, don't smash or suddenly switch to the backhand side.

Outside of matches, don't overuse serves your opponent struggles to return.

Don't give weak serves that look like you're going easy.

Follow the service rules: toss the ball at least 16 cm (about 6 in.) and keep it visible.

Don't serve until your opponent is ready.

Don't argue over calls, such as claiming a net that wasn't.

Don't play in a way that mocks your opponent.

Avoid distracting moves such as waving your racket wildly.

Don't belittle your opponent's play or call them weak by your own standards.

Don't grumble during play or comment on your opponent's mistakes.

Don't take calls or chew gum during a game.

Don't chat with bystanders or watch people passing by while you play.

Accept a loss gracefully — no sour faces.

Don't taunt your opponent when you win.

Don't blame a loss on not feeling well today.

Don't win five straight games without giving your opponent a chance.

Don't quit after one game because it's dull, or walk away when you're about to lose to a lower-rated player.

When ratings differ, the lower-rated player should ask for a reasonable handicap.

Don't play only with stronger players, and after about 15 minutes ask if they're happy to continue.

When coaching, think about what the learner wants rather than imposing your own style.

In doubles, don't frown at your partner's mistakes or play as if you were alone.

Join outside tournaments too — improve your game and build friendships across clubs.