How many time-outs are there in table tennis?

I · Intermediate · Time, coaching, cards and officials · 7 of 7

Checked 13 October 2026

Each player or pair may take one time-out of up to 1 minute in a match. There is up to 1 minute between games, and a short break to towel down after every 6 points. Otherwise play is continuous from the first point to the last.

How it works

Break	How long	When
Practice on the match table	Up to 2 minutes	Before the match
Interval between games	Up to 1 minute	After every game
Towelling	Brief	After every 6 points from the start of a game, and at the change of ends in the last possible game
Time-out	Up to 1 minute	Once a match for each player or pair, between rallies

A time-out is asked for by making a "T" with the hands. In an individual event the player, pair or their adviser may ask; in a team event the player, pair or the captain.
If player and adviser disagree, the player decides in an individual event and the captain in a team event.
The umpire holds up a white card and play resumes when the player who called it is ready, or after 1 minute.
Players leave their bats on the table during intervals and stay within 3 metres of the playing area.
In a team match, a player due to play two matches in a row may have up to 5 minutes between them.

Tricky cases

Can a player towel off whenever they like?

No. Towelling is allowed after every 6 points and at the change of ends in the deciding game.

Both players called a time-out at once. Does each still have one left?

No. It counts as the time-out for both.

Can the coach call the time-out?

Yes, but in an individual event the player has the final say.

Why the rule exists

Table tennis is meant to flow. The fixed, short breaks stop a player using the towel or a pause to break an opponent's run.

Where it differs

Where	What changes	Source
ITTF regulations	As above	Reg 3.4.3; 3.4.4

From the rule book

ITTF Statutes 2026, Regulations 3.4.2.5, 3.4.3 and 3.4.4. Checked 13 October 2026. Official document: ITTF Statutes (PDF).