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1880s: Ping pong emerges in England as an indoor version of tennis. Books were used as nets, cigar box lids as paddles, and a cork ball was used.
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Ping pong emerges in England as an indoor versión of tennis
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The name "ping pong" is coined based on the sound the ball makes and is trademarked. The first unofficial tournament is held the same year.
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The International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) is founded, and the first World Championships take place in London.
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Rubber with sponge is developed for paddles, improving control and spin.
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Japan revolutionizes the game by introducing paddles with smooth rubber and sponge, increasing the speed and spin of the sport.
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Ping pong becomes an Olympic sport at the Seoul Olympics.
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The 40 mm ball (larger than the previous 38 mm ball) is introduced to slow the game down and make it more spectator-friendly.
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The ITTF launches initiatives to popularize table tennis worldwide and promote inclusion through the sport.