This summer, as the sun shines brightly, many will pick up a paddle and play table tennis, or maybe table tennis?
Amidst the laughter and quick volleys of balls, a common question arises: What's the difference between the two names?Whether you're a backyard enthusiast or a serious competitor, table tennis and Understanding the nuances of the name ping pong can help you step up your game and settle age-old debates.
Read on to reveal the origin of this interesting name game.
Why is table tennis also called ping pong?
The evolution of table tennis dates back to late 19th century England, but it went through several iterations before arriving at the game style we know today. According to the International Table Tennis Federation, an early version developed by game maker Jack of London in the 1890s, called Gosima, used a cork ball and a long drum racket. Cork balls didn't have much bounce (other versions of the game using rubber balls were just too bouncy), but around 1900 the celluloid balls we use today were introduced, requiring modifications to the racket. It has become. Compatible with new performance dynamics.
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According to the International Table Tennis Foundation and author Steve Grant, the name “ping pong” may actually come from an 1884 song by Harry Dacre. The new celluloid balls imitated the sounds of “ping” and “pong,” so that became another name for the game, and Jack called it “gosima or ping pong,” then “ping pong or gosima,” and finally simply “ping.” ” was advertised. Pon. ”
In 1901, two rival organizations were founded in England: the Tennis Table Association and the Table Tennis Association. According to the history of the International Table Tennis Federation, by this point “Ping Pong” had been trademarked by Hamley Brothers of the United Kingdom, who “strictly enforced the Ping Pong trademark and prohibited its use in table tennis tournaments and clubs. The use of ping pong equipment was made mandatory.” game. The ITTF was established in 1926 as an umbrella organization for the emerging sport because, as the federation states, “it eventually became clear that commercial ties needed to be severed if the sport was to move forward.” It was done.
Although table tennis and table tennis are essentially the same sport, there are notable differences in rules and gameplay. The International Table Tennis Federation is characterized by strict and standardized rules. Matches are usually played to 11 points with a two-point lead, the serve must be thrown at least 6 inches into the air, and the equipment must meet certain criteria.
In contrast, table tennis, which is often played recreationally, has more relaxed and varied rules. Games may be played with different point totals, serves may not require a toss, and equipment such as non-standard paddles and tables may vary widely.
The names “ping pong” and “table tennis” basically refer to the same game using a table with a small ball, paddles, and a net, but in an official context “table tennis” is more internationally recognized. It's a formal term.
Although “ping pong” is more commonly used in informal or recreational settings, it contains historical trademark associations that have led to “table tennis” being preferred in official circles.
Next 2024 Paris Olympics Table Tennis
First introduced to the Olympic program at the 1988 Seoul Games, table tennis showcases the incredible athleticism and quick reflexes of athletes who must react with pinpoint precision to fast-flying balls.
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The 1988 Olympics also featured other firsts, including the return of tennis after a 64-year hiatus and the participation of a record-setting 159 countries.
Olympic table tennis features several legendary players who have left their mark on the sports world. China's Deng Yaping is considered one of the greatest female table tennis players, winning four Olympic gold medals at the 1992 Barcelona Games and the 1996 Atlanta Games.
Ma Long, also from China, is known for his unparalleled success, including singles gold medals in 2016 and 2020. Another Chinese star, Zhang Jike, completed a career Grand Slam with the 2012 London gold medal. South Korea's Ryu Seung-min made history by winning the 2004 singles gold medal, demonstrating the sport's global reach and diversity of talent.
The table tennis competition at the Paris 2024 Summer Games is expected to showcase skill, agility and fierce competition. One of the fastest sports at the Olympics, table tennis sees top athletes from around the world compete for gold in singles, doubles and team events.
