Opponent plays far from table

Ardak . Asked 2 years ago

Hi, coach!

One of my opponents attacks far from the table. He usually plays far from the table. He can attack by topspins very well from any distance. But he usually plays far from the table, and returns almost every balls: sometimes with high trajectory, sometimes with fast topspins. I play close to the table. When I play him I usually attack him, he returns all of my topspins far from the table, but I can't finish, I do mistake. I tried to vary short balls and power shots. So I varied topspins and blocks. But no result. He returns all. He has good footwork and difficult serve. Maybe overall he is just a better player. But which tactic do you suggest to me? And which tactic is ideal?

Alois Rosario Answered 2 years ago

Hi Ardak,

I think you are exploring some good ideas.  

You can think about improving the quality of your short drop shots.  If you can make them bounce twice on your side of the table it will make it more difficult for them.

Also think about playing wider and slower topspin or smashes to start to open up the angle more.

Finally think about hitting the faster balls earlier off the table to give them less time.

It can be frustrating but if you start to vary things you may start to open up a few cracks.