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In 1981 the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) introduced hand signals for use by international
umpires.
In addition to controlling the match with verbal communication, umpires can also use approved hand
signals to indicate certain decisions,
Umpires are instructed that these hand signals should be clear and positive but not unnecessarily
flamboyant or aggressive.
Umpires must also ensure that hand signals are clearly separated. For example, they should not indicate
a point scored with one arm and simultaneously indicate the next server with the other arm.
However, we need to be aware that the use of hand signals is included in the Regulations for
International Competitions rather than laws (rules) of table tennis.
● NEXT SERVER
This hand signal is also used when a change of server is due. The umpire should point to the next server
with an open hand.
● LET OR ANNOUNCEMENT
● Awarding a point
When a point has been won, the umpire should raise their arm on
the side nearest to the player or pair who won it, so that their
upper arm is horizontal and their forearm is vertical, with the
closed hand upward.
the umpire should use the same hand signal but with a white
card.