Is an edge ball good in table tennis?
B · Beginner · Rallies, points and doubles · 6 of 6Checked 13 October 2026
How it works
- The playing surface is the top of the table, including its edges. It does not include the vertical sides of the tabletop.
- In a rally, a ball that touches the net assembly and goes over is good. Play continues.
- A ball that passes through the net, under it or between the net and its post loses the point.
- The Laws require only that the ball touch the opponent's court. They do not require it to pass over the net, so a shot hit round the side of the net post is good.
- The assistant umpire decides edge balls on the side of the table nearest to them.
Tricky cases
The ball hit the net in a rally and dropped over. Is it replayed?
No. A net ball is a let only on the serve. In a rally it is good.
The ball rolled round the net post without going over the net. Is it good?
Yes, if it touches the opponent's court. It may even roll along the table with no bounce.
Why the rule exists
The top edge is part of the table, so a ball that touches it has landed. The side is not, and a ball that hits it has missed.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| ITTF Laws | As above | L2.1.2; L2.7.1; L2.10.1.5 |
From the rule book
ITTF Statutes 2026, Laws 2.1.1, 2.1.2, 2.7 and 2.10.1.5; Regulation 3.3.2.4.1. Checked 13 October 2026. Official document: ITTF Statutes (PDF).