FH controlled counter loop

Ji-Soo Woo Asked 12 years ago

Hi Alois

There is a special technique that pro players use when they are further back from the table and have to deal with a heavy topspin shot.  I don't know what this shot is called, but I would describe it as a controlled counter loop.  Since the ball is already falling by the time it reaches the player, the traditional techniques against heavy topspin do not work.  So instead they have this slow looking rather horizontal swing where they seem to return the topspin back to the aggressor.  Despite the slowness of the swing, it often seems to explode on the opponent's side of the table and can force them back - stopping them from making a strong continuing attack.  Double inverted players sometimes use this technique, but LP choppers are the only ones who seem to use this regularly.  I suppose it's because they are further back from the table, and also mixing in these topspin shots with normal chops can muck up timing.

I found the following example

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tOTMVHE3sRc

Chen Weixing does the stroke at about 3:55.

If you could explain the mechanics of the stroke, that would be great.

If the premium members could vote on this for a video answer, that would be even better!  ;)

Cheers

Ji-Soo

Alois Rosario Answered 12 years ago

Hi Ji-Soo,

This looks like a low flying loop.  It is basically a topspin shot but taking the ball when it is lower and further away from the table and keeping the ball very low over the net.

He also absorbs some of the spin by having a very relaxed hand.  The most important thing though is to keep it low rather than generating topspin.  It is a little bit like a 'Fishing' shot as well which is a low flying lob.

The variation of pace and speed is what troubles opponents.