Playing against Topspin
Strategy
R Unknown Asked 17 years ago
One of my opponents plays the ball with heavy topspin and occasionally with some sidespin as well and I am not sure how to counter this.
I have heard I should use backspin, but so far this hasn't worked out too well because I am not sure how to plan the point and I find it hard to hit backspin against a heavily topspining ball.
What should I do? Thanks.
Alois Rosario Answered 17 years ago
Hi,
The first thing to think about is stopping them from playing the topspin stroke. This can be done by keeping the ball close to the net and low, or putting enough backspin on the ball to make it difficult for them to play the topspin.
Next, if they do topspin, you can think about playing a block to the ball. To play the block you need a short stroke and hit through the ball. You don't need to generate your own pace on this stroke but just use the angle of the bat to block the ball back.
PingSkills has filmed a Lesson on blocking. It is in the production stage and should be online in a week or so. Watch out for it. This stroke will help you to counteract the topspin stroke.
Chopping the ball back is also an option if you are a defensive player. The Forehand and Backhand Chop Lessons are on the PingSkills Channel on Youtube and will be on our website soon. This is a more difficult stroke to play so you may be better off working on the block strokes.
Recommended Video
Tactics Against Penhold Players
When playing penhold players it is important to remember to first analyse your opponent as you would if they used any grip. What are their strengths and weaknesses? A common weakness of penhold players is their forehand block especially against a slow spinny topspin. Their backhand may be a weakness if they use the traditional style, or you may wish to explore the crossover point if they are using the reverse penhold backhand.
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