How to Effectively Return a Push with an Attack in Table Tennis

Samuel Smith Prefer Not Say Asked 2 weeks ago

I have been playing table tennis for a few months now. And I believe that for returning a ball that has been pushed, meaning a serve that have a backspin in it, you need to make a push as well, brushing the ball from beneath. But when I was in my table tennis academy, I saw someone returning a push with a forehand attack. The coach served by brushing the ball from beneath, and the player returned it by brushing the ball from the top and it did land on the coach's side of the table. How is this possible? Wouldn't this ball land in the net instead of hitting the opponent's side of the table? 

Alois Rosario Answered 2 weeks ago

Hi Samuel,

 It's fantastic to hear about your enthusiasm for learning table tennis. Your observation about returning a push with an attack is a keen one and highlights an important aspect of advancing your playing style.

Firstly, it’s true that a basic way to return a push (which typically has backspin) is to push back, especially when you're starting out. This method ensures the ball travels safely over the net while maintaining the backspin.

However, as you've observed, it is possible and often advantageous to return a push with an attack, such as a forehand topspin. This technique is not just about hitting the ball harder but involves a specific stroke mechanism to counter the backspin.  Take a look at our tutorial on the Forehand Topspin against backspin.

Here's how it works:

• Understanding Spin: When a ball is pushed, it usually has backspin, which makes the ball dip down as it travels through the air and bounce low off the table. To counter this, you need a stroke that lifts the ball.
• Adjusting the Angle: To successfully return a push with an attack, start by adjusting your bat angle slightly more open than usual. This helps negate the downward force induced by the backspin.
• Brushing Technique: The key to lifting the backspun ball is in the brushing action. You need to brush up against the back of the ball with a swift, upward stroke. This imparts topspin on the ball, which not only lifts it over the net but also makes it dip onto the opponent’s side of the table.
• Accelerating the Stroke: Along with the correct bat angle and brushing action, adding a bit of acceleration to your stroke will help the ball travel faster and with more spin, increasing the chances of a successful attack.

Executing this stroke requires practice, as the timing and the angle are crucial. If done incorrectly, the ball might indeed end up in the net or fly off the table. The beauty of this stroke is that it turns a defensive situation into an offensive opportunity, putting pressure back on your opponent.

I recommend practicing this technique with a coach or a more experienced player who can feed you consistent backspin balls. Start slowly, focusing on getting the right angle and brushing action, and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.

Keep up the great work, Samuel, and don't hesitate to experiment with different strokes as you develop your skills. Table tennis is as much about creativity and adaptation as it is about technique.