The Expedite System in Table Tennis: What Is It & Why Does It Exist?

Last Updated on April 24, 2024 by Alex Horscroft

The expedite system is a rule designed to prevent games from lasting too long. It was initially brought in when the game was much slower, back then long matches were a problem. However, as the modern game is much faster, the expedite system is rarely used. So much so that many people don’t even know what it is. 

Why the Expedite System Was Introduced

Table tennis has changed a hell of a lot over the last 100 years. Most notably, the game has become lightning-quick as loops are the go-to shot.

However, this wasn’t always the case. If we turn the clock back to 1936, sponge rubber didn’t even exist as players were firmly in the hardbat era. A time characterized by slow rallies with way too much pushing for my liking…

This reached a head at the 1936 World Championships where a single point between Alojzy Ehrlich and Paneth Farkas lasted a staggering 2 hours and 12 minutes! Clearly, this wasn’t good for the sport, so a rule came into effect to discourage slow play. This was the first time we saw the expedite rule. 

The Expedite Rule Explained

The expedite rule has seen a few changes over the years, mainly to adapt to the faster game. That being said, the game is usually too quick for it to come into effect. The only players who generally need it are very consistent pushers who are allergic to fun…

For an umpire to introduce the expedite system, the following criteria must be met:

• The game has gone beyond 10 minutes
• Less than 18 points have been scored

Once the expedite system is in effect, each player has one serve only, and the server wins the point if they make 13 successful returns. 

The expedite system may also come into effect if both players request it and less than 18 points have been scored. Although, I doubt this has ever happened if I’m honest. Another point to note is that when the expedite system is initiated, it remains live for all consecutive games in the match.

An Example of the Expedite System in Action

Surprisingly, the expedite system has seen use outside of matches with two defenders. One great example was with Feng Tianwei and Park Mi Young at the 2009 World Table Tennis Championships. This was a match between a looper and chopper. Interestingly, their previous meeting at the 2008 Olympics also concluded under the expedite rule.

In the video below you can clearly hear the umpire calling out the number of successful returns made by the receiver. This is key as the receiver needs to make 13 returns to win the point. I found it rather amusing when Feng was the receiver. This is because Park is forced to ditch her chopping style and attack as the 13-point limit nears. It really changes the dynamic of the game! 

Now you Know!

The next time somebody asks you about the expedite rule you’ll know exactly how to answer. To recap, the expedite system is a rule designed to limit matches that go on for too long. If over 10 minutes have gone by and less than 18 points have been scored, it comes into effect. Once active, each player has one serve only, and the receiver wins the point if they make 13 successful returns.