Offensive Players vs Defensive Players: A Technical and Tactical Analysis of Table Tennis Matches

The purpose of the present study was to record and compare the techniques and tactics of the serve, reception, and third hit between offensive and defensive male players at an elite level. The research sample consists of a total of 42 individual matches (3,174) from the last four years between players with offensive and defensive styles from World International tournaments organized by the ITTF. The data analyzed included: the service execution grip, the placement of service execution, the type of technique during reception, the placement of executing reception, and the third hit. The matches were recorded using video analysis. Non-parametric x2 test was applied for statistical data processing, and statistically significant differences were found between offensive and defensive players. Offensive players, use the Forehand grip in service almost exclusively. When playing with defensive style players, their first choice in service and reception is Backhand-Long, while mainly use the Forehand- Push in reception and, most preferably, the Forehand-Topspin in the third ball respectively. Defensive players rely more on the Backhand grip in service, serve closer to the net, and defend against serves by sending the ball to the final line of the table, while the Backhand-Chop is the first choice in reception and service, and the hit after service. The findings of this study could be used by coaches and players as important elements for improving training and providing effective guidance during such competitions.