What can we learn from pro matches

Discussion

Dieter Verhofstadt
Dieter Verhofstadt Asked 10 years ago

I'm watching a lot of pro matches. One thing that strikes me is the length of their serves. They will often serve long but not super fast or long, in a way that it seems easy to attack, precisely what we're being advised against. This I can only explain by the idea that indeed they are inviting an attack so that they can counterattack more forcefully. Is this indeed a regular tactic?

Can we learn anything from pro games at all? I come from a board game background (Go) and in pro matches in that area so much is going on under the surface that any learning based on it is mostly illusionary. You get into bad habits because you're copying superficial aspects of pro play without learning the fundamentals which they have left behind them.

So what can we learn from pro matches and where should we be careful?


Alois Rosario
Member Badge Alois Rosario Answered 10 years ago

Hi Dieter,

I think we can learn a lot.  There are often things that are illusionary though.  For example everyone watched Waldner and thought that he played with a really small forehand swing and blocked all his backhands with sidespin.

We tend to get attracted to the spectacular shots and forget about the general shots that players play for 90% of the time.


Recommended Video

How to Win Close Table Tennis Matches (9–9 Strategy Explained)

What should you do when the score is 9–9 or deuce? One point can be the difference between victory and frustration. In this video, we break down how to win close table tennis matches with a smart, pressure-tested strategy.

🏓 In this video, you'll learn:

  • Why pressure changes everything at 9–9
  • What top players do differently in close games
  • The 3 biggest mistakes players make at deuce (and how to fix them)
  • Simple drills to train your mind and body for high-pressure points

🎯 Takeaway: Winning close matches isn’t about playing harder—it’s about playing smarter.

💬 Question for you:
What’s your go-to serve or tactic at 9–9? Or… what mistake do you often make in tight matches? Let us know in the comments!

Watch Now

No comments yet!


Become a free member to post a comment about this question.