Temporal changes in service return at the Olympic games in table tennis from 2012 to 2021

This study investigated temporal changes in service returns in elite table tennis by analyzing men's and women's singles matches from the 2012, 2016, and 2021 Olympic Games. Quarterfinals and subsequent matches were analyzed, focusing on service placement and service return stroke types. Chi-square tests and effect sizes were employed to assess longitudinal and sex-related differences. The results revealed significant temporal changes in women's matches, characterized by a consistent increase in backhand-based service returns, particularly backhand topspin, accompanied by a shift in service placement toward the short-forehand area. Consequently, sex differences in service return stroke types for services directed toward the backhand and middle areas diminished over time. In contrast, men's matches exhibited no consistent temporal changes in the frequency of service return stroke types. However, observed shifts in service placement suggest changes in tactical patterns that were not fully captured by usage frequency alone. Despite an overall convergence in certain aspects, marked sex differences persisted in service return stroke types for services directed to the forehand side. These findings indicate that service returns in elite table tennis evolved differently for men and women during the examined period and have practical implications for coaching and training, particularly for female players.