Backspin serve return

Hi Pingskills,

I have just watched your video on returning the heavy backspin serve and found it really useful! I often encounter this kind of serve but it comes in both long and short. When it comes to a long serve, footwork is not a problem but I find myself either pushing the ball down into the net or high into my side. I can't seem to find the right angle or the right power to push the ball back. Are there any other options like the backhand sidespin flick or the forehand topspin to counter a fast and long, heavy backspin serve? 

PS. Thank you so much for all your dedication and time spent answering all these questions! I gained an interest in Table Tennis a few years ago but had no training and only watched you guys on Youtube! Now, I am in my school team and would like to thank you so much for all your videos that made me a much better player. (Seriously, I was extremely bad back then) Thank you so much! XD  

Hi Stefan,

If they serve the ball long with backspin you should make a forehand topspin return.  You will need to allow for the backspin.  Your forehand stroke will be more vertical.

Take a look at our lesson on the Forehand Topspin Off Backspin.  This is the stroke you need to play to gain the ascendancy in the rally.

Thanks for your kind words about the site.  It is nice to know that we are able to help players with their game.