Duration of effect of sidespin from serve

Hi guys,

I like to put topspin and sidespin on most of my serves and my opponent likes to return it most of the time with a slow block into my forehand.  I often give myself a good opportunity to smash it to end the point but it goes off the side of the table. I have two questions: Is the sidespin reversed on the return? How long does it take for the original sidespin from the serve to go away?

Thank you. This will allow me to place my smashes down the line and cross court better.

Hi Anthony,

Yes the sidespin does last on the ball for a few shots if no one plays a strong topspin or backspin ball.  So it is important to allow for this sidespin when you are playing the ball.  You can do this by adjusting the angle of your racket slightly sideways to counter the spin.