(by Steve Hopkins)
The ITTF has announced an enhanced racket control process for 2025. The main change is the addition of a post-match inspection phase.
ITTF has had a pre-match control phase for a number of years. This layer of checks included a review of flatness, thickness of the covering, and VOC levels. Players who fail are able to switch to a backup racket and in situations where there are questions, players can now elect to switch to a backup racket or play with the questionable racket and submit to a post-match review.
A post-match control phase is now being added. In this phase, inspections will happen immediately after the match for those rackets that were flagged during pre-match checks. In these cases, the racket covering is removed and the blade and covering will be reviewed separately.
As the ITTF stated in their news item:
“The ITTF’s enhanced Racket Control process reflects its unwavering commitment to fairness and transparency. By educating players and their entourages on the updated regulations, the ITTF ensures that all participants are equipped to meet the highest standards of compliance. This development marks another milestone in the ITTF’s ongoing efforts to safeguard the integrity of the sport, providing a level playing field for all athletes as they compete at the highest levels.”
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