How to counter-attack 'Third Ball Attacks'

Strokes and Technique

Jaydev Ashra
Jaydev Ashra Asked 11 years ago

Hi Alois and Jeff,

First of all, thank you so much for providing such a fantastic learning platform!

I have been struggling to counter-attack the 'Third Ball Attacks'(more on Backhand). If the ball has more spin, it becomes more difficult to counter-attack.

If possible, please give video-answer. Thank You!


Alois Rosario
Alois Rosario Answered 11 years ago

Hi Jaydev,

To counter the 3rd ball you can either block the ball using the technique we show you in the Backhand Block lesson or if you have more time you can use the stroke where you Counter a Slow Spinny Topspin or even more time and you can use the Topspin to Topspin.


Thoughts on this question


ker Gordon

ker Gordon Posted 11 years ago

Try the Backhand punch if it's a slower loop.


Jaydev Ashra

Jaydev Ashra Posted 11 years ago

Hey Thanks Alois and Ker!

I saw the video 'How to counter a slow, spinny topspin?'. But, if it is possible, please make a separate video. I also saw Wang Liqin's counter-attacking video, which was nice, too. But, you can give us deep knowledge. Thank You!


Ilia Minkin

Ilia Minkin Posted 9 years ago

Hi Alois,

What is the correct footwork for counter-attack? If I see an open-up attack coming, should I step back to increase my chances of counter-looping? Do you have a footwork lesson on that?


Alois Rosario

Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 9 years ago

Hi Ilia,

I think you should try to stay as close to the table as you feel comfortable.  If the ball goes a little higher you may want to move back a little to give yourself more time.  To move there, just jump forward or backwards with both legs at the same time.


Ilia Minkin

Ilia Minkin Posted 9 years ago

Thanks Alois,

I will try to counter-attack more during 3rd ball drills when I'm on defensive side.


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