Suckered by high heavy backspin
Table Tennis Strokes and Technique
Last updated 9 years ago
Richard Berke Asked 9 years ago
I find that when I try to smash high returns (chest high and even higher) from my opponent I frequently badly hit those with heavy backspin. I'm ready for hitting a winner, and instead it dives into the net. I feel suckered.
What should I do if I see that type of shot?
Thanks,
Richard Berke
Columbia, MD
Alois Rosario Answered 9 years ago
Hi Richard,
This is a shot that a lot of players have trouble with. You need to make sure yo account for the backspin on the ball by either opening up the angle of your blade or putting a bit of topspin or lift on the shot to lift it over the net.
Take a look at the previous Ask the Coach response we have on High backspin close to net.
Thoughts on this question
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Richard Berke Posted 9 years ago
Part of what gives me trouble is the backspin. When the ball is high already I have trouble stroking up to top spin it, and get the ball down. The margin of error is high for opening bat angle and trying to hit hard. Goes off the table so often.
Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 9 years ago
Yes the topspin is the better option because it gives you better margin for error. The flat smash can be more effective because it is faster but it is more risky.
Richard Berke Posted 9 years ago
Would you try to hit the ball up high (closer in)? Trying to apply top spin there seems fraught with risk. If I stroke up, it would have to be such slight forward component to still hit the table. And I imagine the shot would have to be slow. Alternatively I'd have to close the bat angle, and risk the ball diving down. Seems I should wait (farther back) until the ball is lower, and I could brush stroke upwards to exert the topspin.
Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 9 years ago
I think you should play it when it is higher. You will find that you start to adjust with it. Give it a try and see how it goes.