Long service on my backhand is my weakness

Wendelin Eisele Asked 12 years ago

Hi Alois,

I have a problem with returning long services on my backhand.

Most opponents don't discover this weakness but when someone discovered it, I have a big problem. Then he plays long services on my backhand and I have not the power to return with a strong backhand topspin. Instead of I play a slow backhand topspin and now the opponent can take the offensive.

I'm almost 2m tall so to turn the backhand to play forehand topspin is not so easy for me and also slow too.

When desperated I use the backhand defense stroke to return long services. But are there better options to improve my situation?

Best Regards

Wendy

Alois Rosario Answered 12 years ago

Hi Wendy,

It is better to develop your topspin against this ball. Try taking half a step back from the table if they are serving a lot of these serves to you.

Take a look at this previous answer on How to return a long sidespin serve. We also have a Premium members response at Long, fast serve with lot of back spin.

← Clean your table Overcoming the want to play defensively →

Recommended Video

Fake Movements

After the ball has left the server's bat, they can no longer affect the spin that is on the ball. Any movements after the contact are referred to as fake movements and are meant to confuse you as the receiver. You need to focus on the contact to read the spin.

Watch Now

Wendelin Eisele Posted 12 years ago

Hey Alois,

thanks for your prompt answere! So you also think there is no other option.

Ok, I'll give it a try and will practice more exercises for backhand topspin return the next months. I think these exercises are also good for backhand topspin duels, so nevertheless I'll benefit from them.

Thanks!