Testing the usability of the Garuda Unesa Speed (GUS) table tennis racket developed using Makassar ebony veneer

Developing table tennis rackets using local materials is crucial to support national sports innovation and athlete performance. This study aimed to evaluate the usability and performance of the Garuda Unesa Speed (GUS) table tennis racket developed using Makassar ebony wood veneer. The evaluation focused on three main aspects: design, functional purpose, and safety. A total of 37 respondents consisting of non-elite athletes, elite athletes, and table tennis experts participated in the trial. A comparative experimental method was used, and data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey HSD post hoc tests. Results showed significant differences in design perception (F = 13.275, p < 0.001) and functional purpose (F = 8.642, p = 0.001), but no significant differences were found in safety aspects (F = 2.182, p = 0.128). Elite athletes consistently gave lower scores than the other groups. The GUS racket was well received by both general and expert users, particularly for its balance of design and ease of use. Although elite athletes exhibit higher performance demands, the racket meets basic usability standards and has potential for further development in a professional context. This study is unique in integrating local wood materials with a user-driven evaluation approach in racket development. Its contribution lies in demonstrating that natural material innovations can be validated for high-performance sports equipment, and supporting the advancement of sports technology research.