Touching the table between rallies

Hi coaches,

this could be a really stupid question, but i've not found no answer to it: why almost all players during tournaments do touch the table near the net between the rallies, with them right hand (or left hand if they are left handed) ?

Thanks a lot, Marco

Hi Marco,

They do it to wipe the sweat from their hand and also cool the hand down slightly.  Players are only allowed to use their towel every 6 points so this is their way of keeping their had dry.  Keeping it dry is important so that it doesn't slip during a rally.

However, a lot of players make it a habit rather than a need and that is when you see it happening excessively.

I hope this clears up your query now.