The final wording of the new service rule (outlawing hidden serves) has been finalized by the ITTF, and will take effect Sept. 1, 2002. This is a new table tennis law, so USATT automatically follows it. The pertinent part of the new rule is the following excerpt:

2.6.4.1             From the start of service until it is struck, the ball ... shall not be hidden from the receiver by any part of the body or clothing of the server or his doubles partner.

For the complete text of the new rule, the intent, a power-point presentation, photos and video clips of the new rule, go to www.ittf.com.