What to Do When Your Opponent Has Illegal Table Tennis Serves, by Samson Dubina

What to Do When Your Opponent Has Illegal Serves By Samson Dubina When playing tournaments, you will often be up against illegal serves. With the right actions and attitude, you can easily diffuse the problem and play a fair match. Here are the steps of action that I would recommend… [caption id="attachment_2251" align="alignright" width="150"] Don't let your opponent's illegal serves throw off your game.[/caption] #1. Observe the problem. Preferably in a match prior to your match, try to watch your opponent for possible illegal serves. #2. Try to decide if he is getting some advantage. Tossing the ball 5” instead of 6” doesn’t really give an advantage. However, if he is spinning the ball with his fingers, hiding the contact, or throwing the ball into his racket, then he is probably getting an unfair advantage. #3. If he is getting an unfair advantage, then politely state the problem to him and ask if he could serve correctly because it is bothering you. #4. If he refuses to change, then go ask for an umpire from the tournament desk. If an umpire is available, your request will be granted. #5. Thank the umpire for his assistance and briefly explain the situation. #6. After the umpire is in charge of the match, don’t argue or dispute with him. Accept the fact that he will be an un-biased opinion and will judge each of your serves fairly. #7. After the match has concluded, shake hands with your opponent and the umpire. Regardless of what happened during the match, be prepared to shake off the match and prepare for your next opponent.