Why do table tennis players blow on their paddle and the ball before serving at the Olympics?

TABLE tennis is one of the most fast-paced sports at the Olympics – and blowing on the paddle or ball seems to be a hidden trick.

China’s Ma Long took home the Men’s gold in Tokyo after beating Fan Zhendong in a thrilling final.

While Meng Chen beat Chinese compatriot Yingsha Sun in the Women’s Tokyo showdown piece.

But one thing that fans noticed in both matches, is that the players often blow on their paddle and ball before serving.