Slow ball on the backhand

Urvang Joshi Asked 14 years ago

Hello guys,

First of all, thanks a ton for all the tutorial videos on youtube!

I have recently learnt the backhand topspin (thanks to your video!) and can play it with decent accuracy when the ball is coming at comfortable height and speed.

However, I'm having trouble playing backhand topspin when the ball is slow and at low or low-medium height.

Should I be trying to hit a winning shot of such balls or should I just try to keep playing top spin until I get an easier ball? Any other advice for getting more accuracy on such balls?

Alois Rosario Answered 14 years ago

Hi Urvang,

I would play the ball slowly with some spin.  It is difficult to hit the ball fast because it is low and slow.  It doesn't give you any speed to work with. 

A slow topspin can be really effective.  Make sure you are getting your legs down to the ball so you are in a better position to hit the ball.  You may also have to move in closer to the table on this ball.  Then when you are in a comfortable position, make your normal topspin swing.

Because you are hitting the ball slowly, make sure you are focusing on placement as well. Play it to their weaker blocking side.