Returning side spin

Michael Title Asked 4 weeks ago

How to return side spin? 

Alois Rosario Answered 2 weeks ago

Hi Michael,

Great question—side spin can be tricky, especially if you're not yet used to reading it. But once you understand what it's doing to the ball, it becomes much easier to deal with.

Here’s how to think about it:

1. Read the spin early

Side spin curves the ball in flight and then causes it to kick off the table in an unusual direction. Watch your opponent’s racket angle at contact—that’s your best clue. If the bat is moving across the ball from their left to right, the ball will curve and spin to your right and vice versa.

2. Adjust your racket angle

The key to returning side spin is angle adjustment. Don’t try to fight the spin—go with it. If the ball kicks to your right, angle your bat slightly to the left to compensate, and vice versa.

• For pushes or blocks: Use a soft hand and let the racket angle absorb the spin. A firmer stroke will exaggerate the effect of the spin.

• For topspin returns: You can lift the ball as you normally would, but adjust the angle slightly to counteract the curve.

3. Use your feet

Move your body to the ball so you can make contact in front of you where you have better control. Trying to reach for a side-spinning ball from a static position often leads to mishits.

4. Practise with variation

Ask a practice partner to give you balls with different types of side spin—top/side, back/side, pure side—so you can get used to the feel and adjust your angles instinctively.

Like anything in table tennis, it becomes much easier with repetition and awareness.