Unlock the power of topspin and learn how this essential skill can elevate your table tennis game, giving you control, precision, and an unbeatable edge over your opponents.

Dear Pingskills,

I am a right-handed shakehand players. I use blade Butterfly Sardius, backhand rubber DHS Hurricane 3-50 2.1mm hardness 37 red commercial version no booster, forehand rubber DHS Hurricane Neo 3 2.2 mm hardness 39 black commercial version no booster. My USATT rating is about 1600.  

My backhand is so good that I can attack serves from my opponents. If my opponents serve to the my wide left, left, right, I will put the ball away (win a point immediately) or my backhand attack will put my opponent in a passive position.

My opponents keep complaining that I have an unfair advantage. The application of blade Sardius, backhand rubber DHS Hurricane 3-50, and my unique backhand stroke are what my opponents label as unfair advantage. Most players have backhand rubber Butterfly Tenergy 05 2.1mm red.

The blade Butterfly Sardius is super fast only if I have a firm contact with the ball. Otherwise, the blade is just like any other blades on the market as the ball does not penetrate to the blade.  

Backhand rubber DHS Hurricane 3-50 2.1mm hardness 37 has DHS Hurricane Neo 3 sheet and Butterfly Tenergy 05 sponge. As a result, according to my estimate, it can generate 1.5 times the spin of DHS Hurricane Neo 3 due to the use of softer sponge Butterfly Tenergy 05. It can generate one half the speed of Butterfly Tenergy 05 due to the stickiness of DHS Hurricane Neo 3 sheet.

My backhand stroke is so unique. I use my full body to perform the backhand stroke. Start with my legs, then my waist (belly), my shoulder, my upper arm, my elbow, and most important my wrist. For underspin, I use my left leg to push up. For anything else other than underspin, I rotate my legs. I DO NOT TRANSFER WEIGHT from left leg to right leg. For underspin, my head moves up since my left leg pushes up, but does not move from left to right. For non-underspin, my head rotates from left to right since my legs rotate. However, head does not move from left to right. The other parts perform the same for underspin or non-underspin.

I can brush super thinly the ball at 3PM, 2PM, 1PM, 12PM depending on the direction, spin, depth, speed, height, placement of the ball. I can also have firm contact with the ball (still a loop not a smash) at 3PM, 2PM, 1PM, 12PM only if the ball is too high, the ball has sufficient topspin, or it has underspin, or the ball is a smash from my opponent.

My wrist elbow start position (I call it wrist elbow line) is parallel to my waist line. Wrist elbow line is lower if I loop the ball under the table. Wrist elbow line is higher if I loop a high ball well above the table. My wrist is to the left of my waist (most players have wrists near belly buttons). The clearance between my wrist/elbow and my body is less than 1 inch. Most players have clearance about 4 inch or even more.

My backhand stroke generates a tremendous amount of spin and considerable speed. Most players refer to this stroke as unreturnable. Surprisingly, I rarely use it. Most of the time, I use it with reduced spin/speed intentionally to increase consistency. However, my opponents don't know when I will use this unreturnable stroke. Because most players are afraid of this stroke, they try their best not to put the ball in such a way that I can use this stroke. In the process, they make many mistakes. For example, they try to make tricky serves to my wide left, left, right. They overdo it. They end up with the ball not even landing on my side of the table. During my serve (my serve is too simple. everybody can read my serve and can return it easily), my opponents overdo it. They try to push it hard with a lot of underspin. They make a lot of mistakes. They attack first. They make many mistakes. They try to return the ball to the tricky placement. They make mistakes. They make mistakes because they are afraid of my unreturnable stroke. This is what I call the scare tactic. In a 7-set game, I use it only 7 times. Yet, it has tremendous psychological effect on my opponents.

The stroke takes much longer for backswing, requires high degree of coordination between legs, waist, shoulder, upper arm, elbow, and wrist. It takes even longer for recovery time. If the ball ever comes back , I will lose the point as I cannot recover fast enough. The stroke consumes a lot of my energy. I estimate that this stroke consumes 5-10 times more energy than a typical backhand stroke. For this reason, I use it as a scare tactic. Most of the time, I use my backhand consistency, my ball placement, traditional backhand (banana and non-banana) flick, traditional backhand loop, traditional backhand smash, and my change in spin/speed/depth/height to win the game.

I like to apply my backhand success to my forehand. so far, it does not work. The human anatomy on backhand and forehand is fundamentally different. I wonder if you can give me any advice as I have the following issues with my forehand:

1. The use of wrist on forehand is so difficult. On the backhand, the motion of backhand wrist is similar to the motion I toss a Frisbee. But on the forehand, I cannot use that Frisbee motion. Instead, I use ulnar and radial deviation for forehand wrist. But it is not as effective as the Frisbee motion. Also it hurts a lot. How can I avoid injury? The Frisbee motion on my backhand does not cause injury. ulnar and radial deviation on my forehand wrist causes a lot of pain. please give some advice.

2. I cannot completely close the racket on the forehand. At most, my racket is about 20 degree to the floor. Even at 20 degree, I don't feel comfortable. My forehand grip is standard like most players hold their rackets. Yet, on forehand, I hold my racket with only two fingers, thumb finger and index finger. I let the other three fingers loose. Most players think that I may toss the racket to the air. I have never tossed the racket to the air. The use of only two fingers gives me a lot of flexibility and reduce injury. On my backhand, my racket is 0 degree i.e. parallel to the floor. I can do it comfortable with relaxation. How can I close my racket on my forehand with comfort and relaxation?

3. Forehand stroke has a bigger swing as compared to the backhand stroke. As a result, I am having a hard time of brushing super thinly. Many times, my intention is to have super thin contact with the ball (spiny loop). Yet, I end up with firm contact with the ball. How can I practice super thinly brushing?

4. One advantage forehand over backhand, I realize, is speed. With firm contact with the ball, forehand loop generates far more speed than a backhand loop. But this advantage so far does not translate into winning points (I win more points on backhand, I lose more points on forehand). The forehand bigger swing makes me uncomfortable. Many times, the ball does not come to me. I miss the ball entirely. On the backhand, I use my wrist only if the ball comes much shorter than expected. do you have advice?

I generally forehand loop with firm contact. Firm contact works best when the ball is high, the ball has some topspin, the has some underspin, or the ball is a smash from opponent. I cannot forehand loop other balls as other balls require super thinly contact. Do you have any advice?

forehand bigger swing takes more time on the backswing phase. For this reason, it is difficult if not impossible to counter attack a smash and fast loop. On the backhand,

Topspin-to-topspin rallies are fast, dynamic, and can be the key to winning more points! 🏓🔥 Learning how to control these exchanges will help you stay on the attack and put pressure on your opponent.

In This Video, You'll Learn:

✅ How to adjust your technique for topspin rallies (compared to topspin vs. block)
✅ Why your stroke should be more forward and how to generate dip with topspin
✅ Tactical strategies – Mix up speed, spin, and placement for better control
✅ How to train this stroke effectively, even without a strong training partner

Hi my dear teachers, Mr. Plumb and Mr. Rosario:

I had a big problem while learning strokes in table tennis, and that is the names of strokes. I saw your movie about the difference about the meaning of loop and topspin, but that didn't help me enough.

I read some articles in addition to your useful and great tutorials and blog, so I faced to some strange and complicated words which make me confused! 

That words belongs to some strokes. That words are : forehand/backhand drive counterhit, forehand/backhand loop, forehand/backhand drive loop, forehand/backhand counter spin, and forehand/backhand counter loop.

I'm sure that you've explained these words in the tutorials but I don't know in which titles. 

I want you to introduce me these strokes and tell me that titles.

thank you very much.

One of our readers, Gary Buck has put together his thoughts on Training with a robot.  It would be interesting to hear others' thoughts on the subject.

One of the most satisfying feelings in Table Tennis is when you play a big forehand topspin that curls out wide past your opponent for a winner. In this wee's session we concentrate on developing our sidespin topspin forehand so you can enjoy that feeling more often.

Are you struggling with your forehand topspin? In this video, we reveal the 3 most common mistakes that could be holding back your game:

1. Hitting the ball too late
2. Hitting the ball too flat
3. Following through too low

But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! We’ll show you how to fix these errors for good using our simple 3-step method:

1. Awareness: Understand the problem and how it impacts your shots.
2. Rewiring: Correct your muscle memory with targeted drills.
3. Progression: Solidify the improvements through consistent repetition and practice.

Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your technique, this video is packed with actionable tips to help you master your forehand topspin and dominate your table tennis game.

The forehand counterhit or forehand drive is the foundation for more attacking strokes such as the forehand topspin or forehand loop. There are 3 critical factors:

1. Your feet position
2. Your start position
3. Your finish position

If you concentrate on these 3 factors then your stroke will become extremely consistent. Once you can reliably hit 100 balls in a row then you are ready for more attacking strokes. If you can hit 1,000 balls on in a row then you know you've truly mastered the stroke.

The forehand and backhand topspin strokes are two of the most important strokes in table tennis. In lesson 6 you start playing these strokes first by getting someone to throw the ball to you. This makes it easier to get into the correct position and concentrate on the correct start and finish position, and the essential brushing contact. You can then progress to using this in a rally where your training partner learns to block the topspin back.

Want to learn a reliable forehand topspin that doesn’t fly off the table? In this video, we break it down step-by-step—from your feet position, to your start and finish, to mastering the brushing contact that makes the ball dip with topspin.

Whether you’re just learning or looking to tidy up your technique, this is a great place to start.

Once you've played a topspin off a backspin ball, the next forehand topspin can prove very difficult. I often see people hitting the followup forehand off the end of the table. Watch this master class to see why I think this happens and how to adjust so you can make an effective forehand followup!

Ever wondered why your powerful shots keep flying off the table? The secret is topspin! In this video, we’ll show you how topspin can help you hit harder while keeping the ball in play, even when facing blockers and defensive players. Here’s what you’ll learn:

✅ How topspin creates control and keeps your shots on the table

✅ Key techniques for generating spin while maintaining power

✅ How to adjust your topspin against blocks, backspin, and topspin

Topspin isn’t just a skill—it’s a game-changer. Master this technique, and you’ll add speed, precision, and consistency to your attacks.

The backhand topspin off a topspin ball is one of the hardest to learn in table tennis. Learn how once you know how to play the backhand topspin you can master this shot and play some great backhand counter topspins.

Hi Alois

during a match, I find my focus is purely on technique and execution.  When I miss a shot, all I can do is focus on where I went wrong technique-wise and try and rectify it.

It is only after the match, when I've had a chance to mull over it for a while, and especially when I watch the video footage, that I start thinking of all the tactical, strategic and shot-selection mistakes I made.  I can see clearly when a tactic is clearly not working, and a plausible plan B.

It would immeasurably improve my performance in competition if I could learn to think tactically on-the-fly.  Are there any suggestions for achieving this discipline? 

Many thanks

Ji-Soo

Take your attacking game to a new level by learning how to topspin a backspin ball with your forehand. This video lesson will give you some essential pointers to lift the ball over the net.

Curve the ball past your opponent with the sidespin forehand topspin. The sidespin not only causes the ball to curve but also makes it very difficult to return.

Once you've mastered the start and finish position of the forehand topspin, you can start to focus on finer details. In this video we talk about the position of your legs, weight transfer, varying the finish position, incorporating footwork, the use of your wrist, and the angle of your bat for the stroke.

How important are the angles of your bat when playing the forehand topspin? Is it acceptable to swing through low?

Now that you have the forehand topspin going well, it is time to get some more speed on it.

A great weapon is being able to vary the amount of speed and spin on your forehand topspin stroke. By making your stroke more vertical and brushing the ball finely, you can generate more spin. For more speed you need to swing more horizontally.

Take a look at a unique variation of the forehand topspin using the backhand side of the racket. Sounds strange? Take a look and make up your own mind.

Hi,

I have a very aggressive backhand and its stronger than my forehand. I want to develop my forehand because I can't win points with my forehand against good players. Now I'm playing in a club. How can I improve my forehand in terms of technique, speed and consistency?

Hi Alois, 

I am currently using a 804-20 short pips max on my BH and acuda s2 max on my FH.

1. I am having troubles with returning backspin balls when i push return. I usually push hard on the backspin balls with my short pips/inverted to give a deep backspin return but i always get it to the net. Am I pushing the ball too hard on a backspin ball or do i have to adjust my bat-pushing angle to push forward, brush under the ball and finishing a little up to bring it over the net? my short pips plays a little like inverted as they are still very spinny and are sensitive to spins. What do you recommend to correct my strokes? I used to just lift the backspin serves/balls over the net but they are always less spin on it and my opponents take the advantage to attack those types of balls. 

2. Furthermore I am having problems driving/looping backspin balls with my forehand. They either go off the table on the other side or goes straight down to the net when i brush upwards. Is it a timing problem? i can counter loop and loop well topspins and smash float balls.

3. For blocking, I am having problems with those very spinny fast topspin balls. Do I push the return of the ball with a little closed bat downwards towards the table to return those balls?  I have tried loosening my wrist and angleling the bat but the balls still fly right off the table for my forehand block returns. For my backhand I dun really have a problem as with short pips i can push block back the ball or rolling the ball back. Just for my forehand it just flies off the table on the other side. This cause a habit of bringing my backhand side to block even to block on my forehand area which causes me more unseen errors.

4. For sidespins serves, how to determine if it is a sidespin-topspin/sidespin-backspin. Can they be returned by a specific general one way method by looping from the backhand wing or do i have to determine the backspin/topspin that comes with the side spin first?

5. Finally, for those fast(no spin/topspin/little backspin) serves with very low bounce just slightly higher than the net, what would you recommend me to return those type of serves.

thank you in advance :)

Hi, Alois

Which is the difference between the topspin, the counterspin and the loop?

And I have other question: Have you ever been on the ITTF ranking (a professional player) 

Thanks

Dear Pingskills,

I have improved a lot thanks to your advice and YouTube videos after only 4 months of practicing. I am the only player in my 50 member club, who plays offensive style. All other 49 players are defense players of different styles. Specifically, I have improved significantly in the following areas:

1. reading service spin

2. to be able to relax on all of my strokes. I don't feel exhausted anymore.

3. my forehand loop/counter hit is correct. My start position, circular motion, end position are perfect. I also know when to brush the ball heavily (spiny loop) and when to hip loop (power loop) the ball. I use my full body: knees, waist, shoulder, upper arm, and elbow. To avoid injury, I don't snap my elbow as much as before. I don't use my wrist during the forehand loop at all.

4. my backhand stroke is the best in my club. I can flick (not banana) over the table. I can backhand loop on underspin, no spin, and topspin, long ball, short ball, backhand smash with high consistency. 4 months ago, I did not have backhand at all. I avoided using backhand if I could.

But now I use backhand a lot more than forehand.

5. I no longer care if I win the game, set, or even if the point. My primary concern is to improve myself and perform best in a given situation. As a result, my mental state is a lot better, particularly when I play to a better player.

However, I still have many hurdles to overcome:

1. I can read the service spin on the ball. That is not enough. I need amount of spin, speed, placement, depth, and height. Many times I get caught off guard because I don't know what is in the ball beside the spin. Most of the time, I can return the balls even if I don't know about amount spin, speed, placement, depth, and height. I can still win the point. I get away with my sloppy return. Even if it is a sloppy return, the 49 defense players don't attack my sloppy return.

How do I read the ball regarding amount of spin, speed, placement, depth, height?

2. During the rally, many times these defense players play trick on the ball. They pretend to attack, but they don't. They put a lot of spin (lobbing). They fast push into my body without any underspin at all. They play sidespin. I don't read their racket movement at all. I look at the ball trajectory to make assumption. I make many mistakes by reading the ball trajectory because it is already too late.

How do I read their racket movement to know ahead of time the spin, amount of spin, speed, placement, depth, height.

3. Many times, I attack very hard. somehow the defense player manages to return ball back to me. it is so fast that I cannot react to it. I lose many points this way. The ball comes back right back to the same place. I can attack it again without moving my feet. but it is fast my body cannot react to it. All of my strokes are based primarily on body motion not hand motion. Hand motion can really help in this situation. But I don't know how to perform a stroke using hand only without using any kind of body motion.

Is it possible to use hand only for forehand / backhand stroke?

4.  I don't know how to forehand backhand push. I avoid backhand push if I can. my backhand push is too high. my forehand push is low but has little underspin.

I have practiced push. during practice it works well with a lot of underspin. during game, my forehand push has no underspin.

5. I am not a good blocker. I am not prepared to block. As a result, I usually lose a point if a defense player suddenly attacks. In addition, my DHS hurricane rubbers (forehand and backhand) are not designed for block. They are great for attack but not block. The rubbers do not bounce at all. To block effectively, I have to punch/counter loop an attack. if I don't, the ball usually goes to the net as my rubbers do not bounce at all.

How do I practice blocking with my DHS Hurricane rubber?

6. Because my backhand is too strong, my opponents go after my forehand. They serve short to my forehand. they return short to my forehand. They attack on my forehand. I can forehand loop if a ball is long. but I will return a sloppy ball if the ball is short on the forehand.

I don't know backhand banana flick, forehand flick, backhand push, or forehand push.

How can remedy this problem?

I would like to thank you all of your answers and discussions. I have learned a lot from you. For example, I must have a strategy to loop at different paces. Better yet, fake a loop. I have also learned how to push on forehand / backhand. forehand loop is also another valuable lesson for me.

I identify myself as an offense player. But in my experience, defense player has the upper hand. go to YouTube, type Oliver Mader. His usa rating is 2300! my usa rating is only 1500. Oliver Mader uses long pip racket on both sides. He is a push blocker. He rarely uses his forehand. He uses his backhand to push and block all opponents' shots. His strokes are terrible. His footwork is terrible. He does not know to read opponents' serves. Most players under 2400 will lose to him. His skill set is more like a usa rating 1200 player. He does not need to practice at all. after all, he is a defense player with his racket, push, block as his only weapons.

Most of my club members follow Oliver's strategy. They use long pip rackets, short pip rackets, one side short pip the other side inverted rubber, Amultart butterfly blade Tenergy 05/64 both sides, anti spin rubber racket. Their usa ratings are so high 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900. They do not have proper loop strokes, they don't have footwork. Their main strategy is active block, aggressive push, and high quality serves. They use rackets that do not bounce (pip rubbers) to block. They also use fast rackets to actively block. They avoid attacking when receiving serve. They avoid initiating an attack. They are always prepared to block. They love lobbing. Some are heavy push / chop player.

I, on the other hand, am an attacker by nature. I attack whenever wherever possible. I attack during receiving serve. I always initiate an attack during a rally. My game is about attack / consistency game. However, I lose every time. I lose during serve because I don't know what spin, speed, placement on the serve. I lose because they push into my body. I lose because they actively block my attack. I lose because I run out of patience. They keep returning the balls after balls after I attack them. I lose because I run out of energy after so many attacks.

I use Butterfly Sardius blade forehand DHS Commercial Hurricane neo 3 black 2.2mm hardness 39 backhand DHS commercial Hurricane red 3-50 2.1mm hardness 37. These two rubbers require proper stroke, a big swing, and lot of energy.

I have lost consistently to a usa rating 1000 short pip player, not even one set!

All of my club members suggest:

1. Your overall skill is like usa rating 1800 player. You are underrated (my rating is only 1500). An attacker requires more skills, more training, more practice, more strategy, and more footwork than a defense player. You lose because you are an attacker.

2. Your backhand is like a usa rating 2000 player. You forehand is like a usa rating 1500 player. please improve your forehand.

3. switch to fast rubbers. fast rubber allow you to block easily. fast rubber can save you energy at the cost of consistency, spin, and attack. fast rubber makes it easier to smash. At your level, a fast rubber will hurt your attack game but help your block game. follow a block strategy. don't follow attack strategy.

4. try to forehand hit loop not forehand brush loop. brush loop generates a lot of topspin at low speed. hit loop generates less topspin at high speed. this means you will make more mistakes as hit loop is a more difficult stroke than a brush loop. but overall, you are better off with hit loop.   

5. use less backhand. use more forehand. improve your forehand. fake loop. most players against me put the balls to my forehand. they serve to my forehand, they return serves to my forehand, they actively block to my forehand, they attack (in rare cases) to my forehand.

6. you need to learn how fake a loop (which is what you told me before). 

7. you need to learn how to push/chop

8. you need to learn defense skills like block, active block, aggressive push, push, chop, and others. 

7. if you follow these advices, you will win all the members of this club.

But I want to win a player with my attacking style. Would you agree with these advices? What do you think I should do?  

I am having considerable trouble returning my opponents forehand back-spin chop. Three out of four times I'll return the ball straight into the net. If I do manage to get it back, it is usually done poorly, this allows my opponent to easily smash it to my out of reach corner. I have noticed that my forehand top-spin is the worst return against the forehand back-spin chop, it really just sinks them into the net. What do you recommend as an offensive retaliation to the forehand back-spin chop?

I can hit other strokes but forehand topspin. I wonder what is the difference between loop and topspin

one trainer says a counter hit is topspin with closed-angle and close to the table and a loop is an open angle away from the table. another says that a counter is a very weak topspin and everything else is a topspin. 

how to hit the ball more with topspin and what is a counter and a loop?

I noticed that many players and even professionals prefer footwork to do forehand topspin rather than the backhand topspin. For example Xu Xin, Tiago Apolonia. 

Recently I learnt the forehand topspin, despite I play TT about 5 years.  But I can't do the  backhand topspin. Now, my opponents push only to my backhand side. I lose them during the push battle. It is very hard to use forehand topspin when they push to my backhand side. During footwork I lose balance and my forehand topspin fails. What do you suggest?

Often players spend more time practicing their forehand topspin over their backhand topspin. As a result their forehand becomes a stronger shot. If you want to improve your backhand then practice it! Watch this master class for some other great tips to get your backhand firing!

Hello Coach

I've been confused with the way people call each looping stroke.

In your lessons, you have forehand topspin against block, forehand topspin against backspin, and topspin to topspin.

So far, I've heard the so-called loop drive,slow loop, and loop kill.

Now, this is my questions.

1. Is the loop drive the same as topspin against block?

2. slow loop as topspin against backspin?

3. fast loop as topspin topspin?

PS. Is the forehand drive the same as forehand counterhit?

Thanks for your explanation :)

Hi all,

I just bought PingSkills'  DVDs as a quicktime download.These files are partitioned into chapters which is fine for selecting certain portions of a DVDs content. But as far as I have seen these chapters are not named. So you are not able to see which content will be shown when selecting a chapter number.

Is there a table of contents or something like this available for download? Or am I doing something wrong?

Regards,

Henning 

Hi Alois and Pingskills

when i am in a topspin to topspin, (from forehand to forehand side, against a right handed player) my opponent in occasions give to the ball a bit of sidespin, there is manageable to me, but when they give to the ball a lot of sidespin, i hit it and goes to the direction of the effect (forehand side of my opponent) out of the table...what i have to do? follow the direction of the sidespin, with a forehand sidespin or just hit this ball like in a topspin to topspin?

Thanks

Hello coach,

I am getting very good with my forehand counterstrike but i am trying to groove it into a forehand topspin against backspin but i have three questions:

1-Do I wait until my counter strike become very consistent and aimed then groove it to a loop or do i have to switch between them in training

2-How to grove my counter strike into a loop step by step

3-When to use counter strike and when to use loop while playing

I have an assumption I don't know is it right or wrong, that as time passes and players get professional they use loops only and never use counterstrikes.

The first building block of table tennis is mastering your basic strokes, the foundation of every great player’s game. This starts with learning how to hold the bat correctly and developing control over the ball on the table.

From there, focus on building your technique with essential strokes:

• Forehand and Backhand Counterhit
• Forehand and Backhand Push
• Forehand and Backhand Topspin
• Blocks to Counter Topspin Strokes

Finally, learn to play topspin effectively against backspin balls, a crucial skill for handling challenging rallies. By mastering these fundamentals, you’ll develop the control and precision needed to advance your game with confidence.

For developing this skill watch our basic strokes module.

What angel do you need your bat on to play a forehand? Should you even worry about it?

In this video, we dive into the forehand push, a crucial defensive stroke in table tennis that allows you to control rallies with effective backspin. We break down the three key concepts—start position, feet position, and finish position—to help you execute the stroke with precision. You'll also learn how to adjust your bat angle to generate varying degrees of backspin, depending on the spin your opponent imparts on the ball. Finally, we'll guide you through practical drills to enhance your proficiency and consistency with the forehand push, ensuring you're well-prepared for your next match. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your technique, this tutorial will provide you with the tools to master the forehand push.

Hi coach i want to ask you about the finish Position for the forehand topspin.

sometimes when my partner blocking and i am playing a fast forehand topspin my finish position become more forward but when i am playing in a game.. when i serving short my partner will chop the ball then my finish position become below my head...

what is the correct finish position for my forehand topspin?

Thanks coach

Playing a slow extra spinny topspin can be very effective and by learning this stroke you will win a lot of points.

If you re forced back from the table but want to make an attacking topspin we will show you how to do it.

Pls I am new and when I play I beat a lot of people because I can backswing and flick fast and above net with backhand but I have been trying to learn topspin but it's hard and I was wondering if u could make a detailed video on how to topspin.

The forehand block is one way to counter a topspin stroke hit to your forehand side. Learn this stroke and you will be able to keep yourself in the rally even when your opponent get the first attack in.

Some players prefer playing with the spin when receiving a sidespin serve by using their forehand, and some prefer playing against it by using their backhand. Though most people prefer the ball spinning into them you can't always use your forehand so here are some tips on how to play a backhand topspin consistently against the sidespin serve curving away from you.

Hello Alois and Jeff,

When I play the forehand stoke , I either hit the ball off the table or mostly dump it in the net. How do I fix this?

Hi,

I really enjoyed watching your DVDs (training secrets revealed and serving secrets revealed) and your DVDs and free lessons helped me to improve my game a lot!

However, I would like to ask you one question. I can hit about 40-60 FH topspins against a no spin ball (a robot feeds balls), about 30 times of FH topspins against a backspin ball and only about 4-6 times FH topspin against a medium/heavy topspin ball. This stroke is very inconsistent atm. However, I have no problems if I counterhit the ball (I can hit 70-100 times of FH counterhit in the row) and because of that when I topspin the ball against a backspin ball and if opponent returns the ball with a block I have a big trouble, because I try to topspin it and not counterhit it (it is strange that when they block the ball it has some topspin so the ball goes off the table). Would you suggest me to improve my topspin against backspin, so they can't return it or would you suggest me to counterhit the ball instead of trying to topspin it or would you suggest me to practise topspin against topspin?

 I have the same problem with my backhand as well. 

Or maybe the problem is in my equipment? My blade is really fast (OFF+) and my rubbers are Hexer (it is like Tenergy, but a little bit slower and has more control). However, even before I changed my bat I had the same problem and it seems that this new bat has more control.

By the way, I really love reading the blog and watching PingPods, you should do more of them :)

Hi,

1)What is the different of topspin and a smash?

2) I saw a Rakets of 7 star and mine is 4 star should it change the different?

3)I tried to do a topspin and praticing all the time and i never got that topspin (rare if i got one)

Well thanks!

Hi Alois,

Thanks for your wonderful website. In fact I learnt alot from it. But when I keep attacking my opponent returns the ball at an angle. He manouevers me around the table. I don't know how he beats me because he always pushes the ball, not putting backspin on the ball. When the ball comes to my forehand side i topspin but the ball ends on the ground.

So how do i improve my forehand topspin consistency?

Thanks, 

Abdulla

Good morning, Alois and Jeff

As I have limited opportunities to practice with someone who can return the balls as consistently or feed multi ball like you, I rely on my robot.

Please let me know the type of ball you are sending to Jeff for the following:

FH Counter hit: looks to me like a moderate topspin

FH topspin against block: does the block have just a bit of topspin?

I should be able to work out the frequency from your videos. I can also vary the placement/flight by using the scatter function. I may also program 3-4 balls in the fh court and set at random.

I'll start at 40 bpm, and then gradually to 60 bpm. I find that if the frequency setting is too high the stroke shortens too much.

Thanking you for your assistance, as always.

Hi Alois,Jeff,

When we talk about forehand drive, whether it's same as forehand counter hit?

What's the difference between forehand counter hit and forehand top spin?

I am an aggressive player , I do backhand fairly good , but when I play forehand smash or forehand topspin most of the balls fly away outside the table or into the net.

What should I do to make better forehand topspin and smash?

Hello coach,I am just seeing your videos and improving very fast,thanks!!. I wanted to know the techniques of ma long forehand, which is incredibly strong?

Hi, coach!

Recently I put 50 degrees rubber to FH. It has many advantages, not bouncy in the short game, very spinny, i can do quality pushes and serves. But with this rubber I can't do bigger swing during topspin vs backspin. All my FH topspins become spinny slow. I tried to hit faster, if it is successful, then opponents can't return such fast spinny topspins. But it is very risky, because 50% hit the net. So I always did slow spinny topspins with less swing. One opponent returned them by fast block, then I couldn't return it, the ball always went to the net. I could't do topspin  because the ball comes very fast, I just tried to block. How to return such fast blocks/counter hits? Or what do you suggest in my situation?

when I was playing with 47 degrees rubber on the FH, there was no such problem, I could continue attacking after lifting the backspins. With the current 50 degrees rubber a small change of bat angle during the contact makes big difference. With current 50 deree rubber I can do spinny topspins, many opponents can't block it,  a few opponents return by slower block. But I am in trouble if the opponent can return it with fast block.

With softer rubbers I had no problems blocking fast counterhits. Because of hard rubber my racket became less flexible. But since it has other good advantages, I want to learn play with this rubber despite its low  flexibility. 

sir when i hit topspin against block i hit it easily when ball is long but when ball is short i cant able to hit topspin sir i have also problem when i hit topspin against topspin i cant hit topspin.

My games were based on the forehand slow spiny loops to win. Since the transition to plastic balls, I have found myself in a disadvantage position. I cannot impart enough spin on the plastic balls to make enough dents on my opponent's defense/block.

I discovered that backhand strokes could generate a lot more spin. Now my games are based on the backhand spiny loops/flicks to win. It is so effective. I rarely use my forehand for attack as it is not effective. As a result, I have unbalanced games: strong attack on backhand, block/defense on forehand. It requires a lot of footwork as the ball is in the forehand and I use my backhand.

Forehand

Good: aggressive push, aggressive block, outstanding loop against backspin (which generates a lot of spin and wins points)

Bad: attacks do not result in winning points. The balls keep coming back to me. My attacks are not consistent, do not have enough spin, are too slow, are predictable in the placement/direction/spin/speed.

Why is my backhand so good after only 8 months of practice? Before that, I avoided using backhand for anything much less for attacks?

I have been playing my forehand for 20 years. I do not exaggerate. My forehand now is not even one third as good as my backhand. I am afraid to use my forehand. I avoid using my forehand if I can. How can I improve my forehand in general?

Do other players experience the same issue with the plastic balls (much less spin)?

My strokes forehand or backhand do not generate any sound or noise at all. That means very thin contact between my racket and the balls. To maximize speed, I close my racket. My racket is nearly parallel to the floor. To maximize spin, I open my racket. My racket is vertical, perpendicular to the floor. In any cases, no sound no noise. Occasionally, I make sound noise when I hit the balls. But only 10% of the times. However, more than 95% players in my club make loud noise sound when they hit the balls. Which way is the correct way to hit the balls?

Thanks, Linh 

Dear Alois,

I have a district level tournament coming soon in like 7-8 days,lets catch it as a week.
I have a bug in my game which is itching me.

During my training hours I learnt how to pull off a backhand topspin against backspin.  Now the problem with this stroke of mine is that I find it difficult to pull off a fast backhand topspin shot.  What I do during games is I hit a slow,spinny topspin down the line or in the middle and pivot to be ready for the forehand kill.

I would have to admit that I have a stronger,offensive forehand which can really destroy a loose backspin or a defensive counterhit.

I request you to help me with my game as to how i use my strokes in the big tournament.
I have won a few of my junior tournaments even when i hadnt developed the backhand topspin as my forehand pivot was too hot to handle.  My backhand mostly consisted and still consists of a good push, chop and blocking ability.  I can use my backhand for a topspin nowadays but i think its not properly developed.

Please help me as to how with these set of skills i can make a difference at the tournament.

Thank You Alois and Jeff for igniting a whole new fire in table tennis learners' hearts to really master the game.

Respect !

Hi Alois,

My name is Faiz i'm a lefthanded player.I wanna ask you two question.Hope you can answer my question.

My 1st problem is how to return top spin ball safely.
Cause I always lose againts my friend.He's name is Aiman he attacks really fast.How do i want to return the ball safely.

My 2nd problem is how to make a better forehand top spin.When I play I always have a chance to make top spin.My top spin is really fast but the ball doesnt get in the table.  Do you have any tips ?

Hope you can make a video for me.  All the best for pingskills classic and thanks for your help. 

Best regards,

Faiz

Hey! Watched some players who can easily smash a service at net level. My question to you is that how do they control the position of the racket and how do they come to know that if  a serve can be hit for a smash. Last but not the least. How to generate more power in your wrist while hitting a smash? 

Hi there Alois and Jeff

I am a L2 coach In Mornington VIC at MFTTA.  First thank you for an amazing and brilliant website - I constantly recommend all my trainees go to your website.  Incredibly helpful.

I have been coaching a C grade adult who started from total beginner level, and that person has progressed well on topspin FH and BH, plus serving etc.  In a scratch match their opponent's game was defensive with a lot of topspin lobs delivered well back from the table.  My trainee did well but struggled with high topspin balls to their backhand.  I realised that in my coaching this has not come up mainly because we have been doing basics closer to the table, without lobs.  I have a few ideas but would be interested to know what you might suggest!  Kind regards, David

Hello!

On my backhand topspin shots, I am able to really relax my arm and wrist and just flow through the shot. It's very natural (almost like throwing a ball backhand). I do not sense a 1 (backswing) ... 2 (forward swing)... The movement is just one flowing motion from beginning to end with my wrist very relaxed and folding as i go back and through from the inertia of the relaxed arm. 

I do not feel this same sense of fluidity in the forehand. I do not have the sense that the stroke is one flowing motion.  Because of this, my backhand is far more powerful (with little "effort") and accurate than my forehand. 

Is there a way to develop this sense of fluidity on the forehand? Is it even desirable or necessary? Thanks for any advice on this.

If the ball comes to me with slice?

If the ball comes to me fast?

If the ball comes to me slow but with no space to shot fast?

And its ok to respond a fast shot with backhand and moving the raquet up to down like putting a little of slice?

Sorry if my grammar is bad :( but my first language is spanish thanku :)

how to play as an effective attacker?

What strategies should i use?

Hi alois and jeff,

How do i use the fade topspin stroke with a good speed and topspin.  Generally while doing this stroke i am not able to generate the sidespin like alois had shown in one of the videos.  And when I do get a little sidespin there is almost zero topspin on the ball due to which it never lands on the table.  Also i would like to see this stroke off a backspin ball if possible. I can do the sidespin topspin to right handers forehand well, but i am just not being able to do the fade topspin to their backhand which  I think is more useful.I am a right hander so i would dearly love to see a right handed video response.  None have been able to sort my problem till now so i hope you guys would be the ones!!

Do you hesitate to play your topspin in matches even though you’ve practised it endlessly in training? You’re not alone. In this video, we’ll show you how to recognise the right ball to attack and build the confidence to go for your first topspin when it counts.

✅ Know when to attack (and when not to)
✅ Avoid the 3 biggest mistakes players make
✅ Train smarter with decision-based drills
✅ Develop confidence under real match pressure

This episode is all about helping you take the initiative in rallies—not with risky winners, but with smart, controlled topspin shots that give you the upper hand. Learn to trust your technique, commit to your decisions, and stop waiting for the “perfect” ball.

Returning a short topspin serve can be tricky because the spin wants to lift the ball up. In this video, we look at two effective options: developing an attacking flick and learning how to push the ball safely.

For the flick, the key is to be positive. Take a few risks, hit through the ball a little harder, and aim for a fast, flat contact. In practice, don’t worry too much about making mistakes as this is how you learn to control the shot under pressure.

The second option is the push. You can push a short topspin serve, but you need to adjust your contact. Instead of getting under the ball, come down the back of it more, almost feeling like your bat is moving slightly backwards. This helps counter the topspin and keeps the return lower and more controlled.

Hello, i want learn exercices to move in the table to change backhand topspin to forehand topspin thank bye

You need to choose the right ball to attempt an around the net shot. Make sure it is wide enough and add some sidespin to your shot to get that extra curve that you may need.

My forehand top spin doesn't put a lot of trouble to my oponent, how to develop a deadly forehand imposible to return on the table?

My regular opponent fears my backhand so continually sends a deep heavy chop to my forehand. Eventually I get frustrated and either hit the net with my return chop or over hit a forehand loop return. What to do in this situation?

The pivot is where you are moving around your backhand corner to play a forehand. This is something that will come in handy in a match situation, especially if you have a stronger forehand. We will show you the best way to move in the pivot footwork.

Playing forehand and backhand strokes individually in practice is an important step in your development but to use them effectively in a game situation you must be able to switch between them. This sounds like a simple step but it's something you must practice. Lesson 10 focuses on ensuring you can quickly switch between your backhand and forehand table tennis strokes.

Being able to change between forehand and backhand is an important part of game play. Even if you have a great forehand or backhand, the ability to switch between the two is vital to be able to play well in a match situation.

Hello guys, I 've also a question about the fact that if I want to improve my forehand smash, I really need to exercise the right technique for forehand topspin and surely forehand smash.  I don't play tennis for the moment because of the problem that both technics are difficult to differentiate.  But in my youth I've played it quite often.  So I want to focus on table tennis competition and I want to ask what is the advice you can give me to drop the bad habit technics that tennis brought me and take over with needed strokes in table tennis?  Thanks for your answer!

Hi Alois

I hope you can find time to add some more information to your coaching lessons. Specifically I think it would be a good idea to include when a particular shot is best used and why, eg: one wouldn't normally use 'counterhit' against 'backspin'. It took me a long time to spot the differences in 'Forehand Counterhit' and 'Forehand Topspin'. The word 'counterhit' is liberally used on many websites as 'smash' hence some terminology clarification is handy.

Regarding 'Forehand Topspin' the link points to 'Forehand Topsin Against Block - Table Tennis Video Lesson' (but is not available on your site) so I wonder if that is the only or the best time to use 'Forehand Topspin'.

I feel that I can master most basic shots, but I make poor shot selection during games as I think I lack what I call 'the science of the game'.

Cheers

Jon

Good afternoon. Your site is very convenient, I like it very much. That’s why I get a premium account.

Please give me a list of videos which have subtitles. 

Lot of video are have no subtitles. Are you going to do subtitles (at least in English) for it? 

In your site you have a part «ASK THE COACH» which includes subpart «Video answers». Are this videos unique or I can watch it in other part of the site?

I live in Russian Federation and I have some difficulties with a translation of the table tennis lessons. Can you send me vocabulary of table tennis slang and terms if you have it?

Hi :)

When playing forehand topspin, do you have the same angle for the bat when you focus on both spin and power (not at the same time) or when playing power close the bat and go more horizontal with my arm and forehand and spin more open and have a vertical stroke? My forehand is probably my weakest stroke (my backhand smash is better, even when I don't try ironically) I have dhs hurricane 3 rubber on my forehand if that info is needed. Thanks in advance! (And if possible, info on the finish position for both spin and power)

I'm Peter here, i see many players using more forehand topspin than backhand topspin and they use it as a power shot, and i got my backhand topspin better than forehand topspin, so can i develop my backhand topspin as a power shot and does it matters?? And which wud be a better stroke for a short ball? A forehand flick, backhand sidespin flick, or forehand/backhand push??

Hello, 

I have a good forehand shot with good speed but less spin. The coach from the club says that I should apply more spin to my forehand topspin shot rather than hitting flat shots. However I doubt that if I have more spin then it will be less speed which my opponent can punch it. 

How can I add maximum speed and spin to my forehand topspin shot and backhand topspin shot?

thank you

Hi, I find the Forehand/Backhand Counter Hit easy for me, so I'm trying the Forehand Topspin.  But, what allows you to swing fast and still keep the stroke on the table?  Thanks.

Hellow,my name is Ismael I recently played a competition on my school I played 3 matches and won all of them.  I have the best serves in my school they rarely stop them, if they do they put the ball in a good position, then I can smash it or put topspin. The problem that I have is that I’m scared that I do a topspin and a fail, it can be a forehand or a backhand topspin. I have a lot of power doing the topspin, but if I put a lot of power the ball hits the net. How can i improve this? Please answer me because I need to train it and i don´t know how.

Hi Coaches, 

 I am a beginner. While looping against backspin balls(backspin from long push and serve not chop against topspin), i am finding pure side-spin and little bit of topspin do the job pretty well rather than pure topspin with lifting action, which is difficult for me right now. So am i just getting lucky or side-spin with little topspin is proper shot against these backspins. 

Another question, I am having problem with my forehand loops. Backhand drive and loops seems pretty effortless and i can concentrate on placement but its not like that with forehand,  i have to think about technique so much. Please give some advice to make my forehand effective. 

Thanks in advance

 I am looking for confirmation as to the angle of the elbow throughout the various forehand topspin shots. From what I've seen in your videos I believe the elbow at finish position should be at 90 degrees, especially for topspin against chop, however I would like a description of the shot from start to finish and whether it changes for instance when dealing with topspin/block, topspin/topspin etc.

If the elbow joint is relatively static it also brings up the question of where the power comes from: hips, legs, shoulder, wrist; and in what proportion.

I ask this as some suggest that the arm should only be slightly bent at the start of the shot, and be whipped into the 90 degree angle on contact with the ball to produce extra topspin.

If I could have as in-depth an answer as possible, I promise not to ask another question for at least a month - you can't say fairer than that.

Thanks for the great site, and all the best to you both.

Hi , I have a problem in my FH Topspin . While I practice , my practice parters says that my topspin have no spin at all and they are just like flat balls that anyone can smash easily . I have also tried to improve but I am unable to generate a good kind of spin . So can you please give me some tips on how to generate more spin in my FH Topspin .

Hi Alois, 

Recently while playing against a modern chopper for the first time I noticed a big flaw in me .i don't have a consistent forehand topspin off back spin . My opponent has a good control with his chops and he puts them accurately to corners.

I noticed that I am getting too side on for the stroke, almost like that of a pendulum serve stance, for the first few about 2-3 topspin stroke  I am able to generate some sidespin with topspin. Soon when his chops are all over the table I find it hard to return them. The ball usually drops to the net or flies off table as I am caught cramped.

i watched your videos  on topspin off backspin And I am also able to get a good backswing and a shoulder turn, just the feet position bothers me .

how to improve the situation?

thanks in advance

Hi Alois and Pingskills

i have almost dominate the RPB, but is very difficult to me add this stroke in middle of a point. Generally i hit the ball with the classic penhold backhand, what i can do for eliminate this backhand of my game and wear more the RPB?

Besides i am worry for the position of the forehand topspin off backspin, for the side of my forehand. I play a lot of with my forehand, my footwork help so much, i attack the backspin balls from the side of my backhand with the forehand very easily, but the balls that come to my forehand side complicate me, generally i can't hit it and if i hit it goes to the net (backspin balls), maybe the position of my legs is not the correct, but i don't know...Please some advice.

Thanks

In this master class we give you some tips on how to hit a faster forehand topspin whilst still maintaining your consistency.

The forehand topspin off backspin is one of the most important strokes in Table Tennis. Even more important is the ability to serve and then make this attack off the 3rd ball. This is one of the most common tactics in Table Tennis and one you should practice regularly.

Hi, Alois.

I am currently working on my forehand topspin. I am not bad at it. I get most of the topspins on the table. i start around at my thigh level and finish up around above head level.(I have seen your video on forehand topspin). What sometimes happens is, my topspin hits the top of the net and sails across the table. I get very much frustrated. If this starts happening, it will continue for a long time. Can u advice me about this? 

And also, 

After i get it right, i just wanted to know if the forehand sidespin topspin is really useful. If i can just keep using my plain topspin, or do i need to learn the sidespin/topspin?

Thnx

me and my mate are both fairly beginner level and we were having a discussion about top and backspin.

Lets say that my friend serves backspin, I push the ball back and he returns with a forehand topspin, now the point has went from backspin into topspin.

what my mate said is that after the rally becomes topspin it will always remain topspin for the rest of the point, and if I try to make a topspin ball into backspin the ball will just go up high/off the table  is he correct? 

Is there a way to change topspin into backspin? If I try would it just cause the ball to fly up high?

Thanks

Hey,

I have difficulties when receiving short reverse - pendulum serve to forehand from right handed player or short pendulum serve to forehand from left handed player. That left handed player serves side/back or side with little backspin serve when a second bounce drops just after the edge of the table or second bounce is on the table. So the ball is as far as possible from the net maintaining the ball short. It makes it harder to make short push. Good thing is that he makes these two serves 95% of a time so I know that I get it right into my forehand or into the middle I just need to read wheather it is back/side or side with little backspin and if it is long enough to topspin or it is not long enough and I need to push short.

Now, here is the problem. At first I am prepared to return the serve with my forehand so if it's just little high or long so I topspin or if it is not long enough I push short. Most 75% is not long enough. During the game I always get confused because while I am expecting it long it is not long enough and I need to quick chanage and push it so 1) I lose my balance, control, preparation to return the serve while reading the spin at the last moment. 2) ball drops deep in my forehand with sidespin so I need to open my arm when I push with my forehand which makes harder to control. I find it easier to return the serve with my backhand, however if serve is long I dont have time to turn back and loop with forehand(I dont loop with backhand because serve is low and I can not make enough speed as much speed on the ball as with my backhand.

Some tips or thoughs how I can deal with that?

Dear Alois and Jeff

I am a 40% average premier division player. I am always been vulnerable to forehand services played long and spinny to my backhand. I always seem to pop the ball up for the opponent to loop strongly or even to smash. I have tried different approaches from standing away and taking the ball late with some backspin or taking it early but bar for some exceptions the result is most of the time unfavourable to me. Placement is also important. I have tried wide to forehand, middle or deep into their backhand but to no avail. Control is not easy when the ball comes fast and spinny towards you.

What is your suggestion? What should I practice on? Is a backspin or topspin return best?

Kind regards

Filippo

One question,

Is it okay to have the finish position for the forehand sort of across your body?

hi, when i am in a rally most of the time i am hitting backhand pushes or forehand pushes. does the ball have to be a certain height ,to be able to hit a forehand drive or a backhand flick?  regards leon.

I think that technique is sometimes adapted by each player in his own way. Factors that have an influence on this may be the height of the player, the equipment or even the generation of player that we talk about.

There are some professional players that end the forehand topspin in different places:

- Timo Boll and Michael Maze cross the arm and finish the stroke near of their right shoulders.

- Vladimir Samsonov and JO Waldner finish it with the racket closed to the right side of their heads.

Is there a real "Good model of termination for the forehand topspin" or must we adapt ourselves to what we prefer?

Hello. What is the difference between forehand loop and forehand drive? When is the appropriate time to use each one? What is the hand movement like?

Hi Jeff and Alois

First of all thank you for providing so many tips and techniques which are helping me improve the game i used to play in my school life, only this time i am being technically correct in my shots for which a lot of credit goes to the PingSkills team.

Recently i found out that i am confused in playing the forehand shots as the action is pretty similar. only difference i notice is that during forehand topspin the focus is more on brushing the ball and while in the forehand counter hit the bat comes flat. We know that if the arm action is not smooth then the shots wont be continuous and wont be in control. Same is the problem with me, i tend to lose the smoothness of the arm action and give jerks while trying to hit the ball flat.

IF possible kindly post a response video playing the forehand shots both topspin and flat consecutively.
P.S. Dont forget to add your magical slow motion effects.

Hi Alois and Jeff

My forehand topspin is a lot better than my forehand counterhit, but in my backhand, my backhand counterhit/aggresive block is a lot better than my backhand topspin.

What do you think about using forehand topspin and backhand counterhit as my aggresive strokes? (except when the ball has backspin or im far from the table, in that situation i would use my backhand topspin)

I feel good using this because I usually hit the ball earlier in my backhand and later in my forehand.

I think also it gives variation to the oponent without any difficult for me.

What do you think about this style? do you have any tips to get better at this?

Thanks for all!

Hi, coach.

Here is my question. When my opponent return a loop to me with a chance to do topspin stroke, I want to do a topspin stroke but I still do a chop or loop. So, how to maintain topspin stroke and not a loop if I have a chance to do topspin stroke. Any 

suggestion or tips for me?

Thanks!

Hi Alois,

I played with several very good players and they return my topspin with another topspin easily. I tried to do another counter topspin but i feel that the ball so heavy,  even heavier than returning a backspin ball. As the result i only can return the ball slowly with a slight spin on it. So, my questions are :

1. Why counter topspin is more difficult to do than a loop ?
2. Can u give me some tips how to do a fast counter topspin in a topspin rally ?
3. What should i do to excel topspin to topspin rally ?

Thanks you

hi alois nd jeff,

i can play a bh punch against almost any topspin but can u tell me anything about a forehand counterhit against topspin to put them out of position? 

Hi Pingskills!

I had a look at your videos, mainly the ones about the forehand topspin against block and the one about forehand topspin against backspin.

I understand that when returning backspin ball the stroke is more vertical to lift the backspin and your bat begins lower, but now what i'm unsure is, what's the difference between the forehand drive/counterhit and the forehand topspin when returning a non-backspin ball?

To me the drive/counterhit seems almost the same as the forehand topspin (in terms the stroke technique).