Why do table tennis players blow on their paddle and the ball before serving at the Olympics?

TABLE tennis is one of the most fast-paced sports at the Olympics – and blowing on the paddle or ball seems to be a hidden trick.

China’s Ma Long took home the Men’s gold in Tokyo after beating Fan Zhendong in a thrilling final.

While Meng Chen beat Chinese compatriot Yingsha Sun in the Women’s Tokyo showdown piece.

But one thing that fans noticed in both matches, is that the players often blow on their paddle and ball before serving.

Find out the reason below.

Why do table tennis players blow on their paddle and the ball before serving at the Olympics?

It has been revealed that table tennis players blow on their paddle and the ball before serving to dry off sweat.

A moist paddle or ball can be a problem for grip and this happens through humid conditions.

Or players that are naturally more sweaty than their opponents.

Who competed in table tennis for Team GB at the Paris Opympics?

Liam Pitchford and Anna Hursey were named as Team GB‘s two table tennis players for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

However, Pitchford saw his gold medal dreams shattered after being knocked out by 13th seed Darko Jorgic.

While 18-year-old Olympic debutant Anna Hursey also got knocked out of the Women’s Singles by Indian Manika Batra.

Paris 2024 Olympics medal table

Paris 2024 Olympics medal table: How many golds have Team GB and USA won?