Faster topspin against backspin

Hi Alois,

I have noticed that when I hit the topspin against a heavy backspin, the ball does not move that scary fast as opposed to the times I do counter-topspins. This generates a slow spiny topspin which my opponent just punches through flat(which does not require very much skill at all) and I start defending until I lose the point.

If I try to make the stroke any faster, I just return a higher slow spiny topspin ball, which this time he can just smash easily.

Any suggestions on how to make the ball go that same scary fast as it does in a counter-topspin?

Also, which is the better way to improve in table tennis. By playing matches against random opponents in my club or is it by practicing drills. I personally feel that the drills are not that effective as they focus on a particular action repeatedly, which is never the case in the real game. I think matches are more fun and effective way of improving. What do you think?

Thanks

Hi Chandrachur,

Try to flatten out the contact slightly.  You will still be able to generate some topspin to make the ball dip onto the table but the flatter contact will get the ball travelling faster... maybe even scary fast!  Also take a look at the tutorial on the Advanced Forehand Topspin.

To improve in table tennis you need a mixture of drills and matches.  However you can make the drills more game like.  Progress your drills as you start to feel comfortable with it.  Make it more challenging and more game like.