Pivoting forehand topspin pointers

Hi Alois

When I do the side spin serve and the ball comes back to me I am able to pivot and make a forehand top spin attack on the 3rd ball, if the ball has a lot of backspin I tend to move forwards along the side of the table to get the entire force of the body to make the topspin attack. It does give me quite a few points however I notice that opponents realise that the whole table is free and all they have to do is block the topspin to the other side of the table where it is hard for me to reach. What are the pointers I need to follow when pivoting to avoid this situation ?

Thanks

Regards

Grenville

Hi Grenville,

One principle is to hit the ball across court.  If you hit the ball down the line you are leaving it open for them to play the next ball wide to your forehand.

You placement is crucial here.  When you make the commitment to pivot you need to also commit to playing an effective shot.  A simple ball will almost always lead to you being left in a difficult position.  So to make the shot effective we think about speed, spin and placement.  Make a ball that is difficult for your opponent in all three of these facets.  That doesn't mean faster is better or spinnier is better.  It is just finding a ball that is difficult for them.  Also remember to not always hit the ball cross court because they will start to be ready on that side.

It is also important to pick the right ball to pivot on.  If the ball is too difficult then use your backhand topspin even if it is reasonably simple ball you will still be in a better balanced position to make the next ball.