How do I handle intervals and time-out requests?

Under ITTF Statutes 2026, regulations 3.4.3 and 3.4.4, play is continuous except for:

• up to 2 minutes' practice on the match table immediately before the match (not in normal intervals; only the referee can extend it);
• up to 1 minute between games;
• brief towelling breaks after every 6 points from the start of each game, and at the change of ends in the last possible game;
• one time-out of up to 1 minute per player or pair per individual match.

Time-outs

1. A valid request is made only between rallies, with a "T" sign: in an individual event by the player/pair or designated adviser; in a team event by the player/pair or team captain. If player and adviser/captain disagree, the player/pair decides in an individual event, the captain in a team event.
2. Suspend play and hold up a white card with the hand on the requesting side; place the white card or a marker on their court.
3. Remove it and restart when the requesting side is ready or after 1 minute, whichever is sooner.
4. If both sides ask at once, restart when both are ready or after 1 minute; neither side gets another time-out in that match.

During intervals and time-outs players stay within 3 metres of the playing area under your supervision, and leave their rackets on the table unless you allow otherwise (a racket strapped to the hand can stay on). Players may leave the playing area during a match only with the referee's permission. You, or the assistant umpire, time practice, play and intervals.