Clarification on the fade shot

Ji-Soo Woo Asked 13 years ago

Hi Alois

I recently rewatched your video on both the hook and the fade variations of the FH topspin.

On the fade shot, could you please elaborate on the technique - in particular the start and finish positions.

I've been working on this shot for the last few sessions and while I am improving in terms of consistency and placement, I don't think I'm generating much sidepsin at all because the ball does not curl in the air.

Thanks!

Alois Rosario Answered 13 years ago

Hi Ji-Soo,

It is all about the angle of your wrist and the contact on the ball. It is difficult to curve it as much as with the hook because you can't get the angle of the wrist.

Work on the contact. I find it is also helpful to move your body away from the ball on contact as well to add more movement to the bat.

You may want to just get the feel of the contact by bouncing and hitting the ball yourself. Don't try to hit it on the table, just get up one end of the court and get it to curve to the other end.

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Thoughts on this question (2)

Ji-Soo Woo Posted 2013-08-10 10:05:35

Thanks for the answer Alois

Just a quick specific question. Should the start position for the swing be the same as for a "normal" straight topspin loop? Or should you already have your wrist cocked at the beginning and the racquet tip pointing up?

Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 2013-08-10 10:05:35
When learning it start with your wrist up already. As you get more relaxed with it you can move your wrist into position through the stroke.