Abstract Purpose: In table tennis, effective footwork is essential for optimal ball contact timing and successful stroke. This study examined footwork techniques in relation to gender and handedness, highlighting practical implications for match performance and training. Methods: Footwork techniques of professional table tennis players in publicly available matches were analyzed in 12 matches, encompassing >3000 instances. These techniques were categorized according to existing classifications in the literature. Results: Female players exhibited a significantly higher frequency of "step jump" and "jump", whereas males favored "jump backward" and "running step sideways". Right-handers demonstrated a greater propensity for "step" and "no position change". Females performed the "step jump" significantly more often before losing a point. The "cross step" was not performed. Conclusion: The findings underscore distinctions in playing styles between men and women. The observed tendency for women to employ `jumps` more frequently may suggest a strategy to position closer to the table, facilitating earlier ball contact. Left-handed players displayed a higher incidence of offensive shots, potentially influencing opponents, including right-handed players, to move farther away from the table due to the extended trajectory of these shots. Although the "cross step" was not performed, alternative lateral steps were used. As the "cross step" is the only technique involving a flight phase with no court contact, its absence may increase the risk of stroke errors. The findings may have direct implications for training, emphasizing the importance of tailoring footwork training to align with competitive demands.
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