How to deal with chop blocking

Dariusz Rypień Asked 1 month ago

Hello,

I've played a match recently and was leading 2:0 in sets. I had domination during rallies because I was faster, more agile, regular etc. Then my opponent changed his playing style and started chop blocking  more often with inverted rubbers. I tried to play with spin but he was chopping it back. I was kinda confused to be honest.  I tried to agressively attack from time to time those chop blocks ,but it was like 50% percent accuracy, so eventually I lost 2:3.  

I normally use hard chinese rubbers and have nice hand-body coordination, so it makes attacking bacskpin balls in an aggressive way a little bit easier. Any tips how to deal with such players and chop blocks?

Alois Rosario Answered 2 weeks ago

Hi Dariusz,

Thanks for your message. That is a really interesting situation and something many players can relate to—being in control early, then struggling when the rhythm of the match changes.

Chop blocks with inverted rubbers can be very disruptive. They come through slower, with varying amounts of backspin, and tend to break up your timing. What your opponent did was smart—he used the chop block to take away your speed and make you generate everything yourself.

Since you are using hard Chinese rubbers and have good hand and body coordination, you are actually well equipped to deal with this style. Here are a few things to think about:

1. Recognise the variation – Not every chop block is the same. Some come with heavy backspin, some are more floaty. Try to read the contact and the flight early so you can adjust your stroke. Slowing down just a touch and watching the ball carefully can help.

2. Adjust your spin rather than power – Against those soft chop blocks, going for full power can lead to a lot of unforced errors. Instead, focus on brushing the ball with good spin first, and gradually build pressure. Sometimes a slower, spinnier topspin is more effective than a flat drive.

3. Use angles and placement – Because the ball comes slower and lower from a chop block, you have a little more time. Use that time to move your opponent around. A wide angle or a sudden switch in direction can be just as effective as speed.

4. Move closer into the table – Try to get your legs closer to the table against these strokes because the ball is dropping with less pace.  Then start a little lower as well to lift the backspin ball.

This kind of match is a great learning experience. It shows you how important it is to adapt not just technically but mentally as well. You have the tools—you just need to make the right tactical shift when the style changes.