Singles vs. Doubles: Understanding the Differences

Teamwork vs. Individual Skill

While the basic strokes remain the same, doubles play introduces entirely new strategic elements and specific rules that you must follow. If you are unfamiliar with the core rules, start with our basics guide.

The Service Rule

In singles, you can serve from anywhere to anywhere. In doubles, you MUST serve diagonally from your right-hand court to the opponent's right-hand court.

Alternative Hitting

Unlike tennis, where one player can dominate the net, in table tennis doubles, partners must alternate hitting the ball. This makes positioning and movement far more critical than in singles play.