Returning sidespin/backspin serve
Receiving
eugene lu Asked 10 years ago
Hi Alois,
I found it quite difficult to return a sidespin/backspin serve, because of the awkwardness of the spin. When I try to push it the ball will fly of the the table because of the sidespin . And if I try to steer the ball back on to the table, it ends up in the net because of the backspin. It's like I can only focus on one type of spin. So how do I return this serve.
Alois Rosario Answered 10 years ago
Hi Eugene,
Try to think of it as one spin. It is dragging down and sideways so aim to the other extremity. It will soon become natural for you.
For our Premium members we have some nice simple explanations of returning spin in our Receiving Secrets lesson on Reading Spin and Receiving Principles that will help.
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Recommended Video
Returning Short Topspin Serves: Two Options
Returning a short topspin serve can be tricky because the spin wants to lift the ball up. In this video, we look at two effective options: developing an attacking flick and learning how to push the ball safely.
For the flick, the key is to be positive. Take a few risks, hit through the ball a little harder, and aim for a fast, flat contact. In practice, don’t worry too much about making mistakes as this is how you learn to control the shot under pressure.
The second option is the push. You can push a short topspin serve, but you need to adjust your contact. Instead of getting under the ball, come down the back of it more, almost feeling like your bat is moving slightly backwards. This helps counter the topspin and keeps the return lower and more controlled.
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eugene lu Posted 10 years ago
So do you mean using a push to impart the backspin then drag the ball to the opposite side of where the sidespin intend to make the ball go?
You can aim upwards and then to the opposite direction to where the spin wants to drag it. Rather than drag it across, just use the angle of your racket to aim to the side.
eugene lu Posted 10 years ago
Thx alois