Modern table tennis games are played first to 11 points, with a 2-clear-point advantage required (so 11-9 wins, but 10-10 continues as deuce). Matches are typically best of 5 (first to 3 game wins) or best of 7 (first to 4). Service changes every 2 points throughout the game, except at deuce (10-10) where it alternates every point. Prior to 2001, table tennis used 21-point games — the change was made to increase excitement and television appeal.
Key points
- First to 11 (win by 2) per game
- Best of 5 or 7 games per match
- Service every 2 points, alternates every 1 at deuce
- Changed from 21-point games in 2001