Long Pimples against flat hitters

Hi Guys

As an older player I switched to lp on my backhand some years ago.  Against other lp players and topspin/loop I dont have a lot of trouble but quite a few players in my current league are flat hitters.  I find I really struggle with this type of player as they seem to just hit everything with little or no spin so I have nothing to work with.  I have tried blocking or chopping and even counterhitting but they just pin me in the b/h corner and hit flat balls until they eventually put one past me. I have inverted on my f/h but my lack of mobility means I cannot run around and play f/h from the b/h corner and twiddling is very much a hit and miss affair for me.  Do you have any words of advice please?  Graham

Hi Graham,

Dealing with flat hitters can indeed be challenging, especially when you are using long pimples on your backhand. These types of players tend to generate less spin for you to use to your advantage, and, as you've experienced, can keep you pinned in one corner.

Here are some strategies you might consider to help combat these flat hitters:

1. Change the Pace: Flat hitters usually prefer a consistent pace to maintain their rhythm. With your long pimples, you have the ability to vary the speed of the ball. By changing between a more passive block and an aggressive chop, you can disrupt their timing and force errors.

2. Placement Variety: Don't allow your opponent to settle into a comfortable pattern. Use your long pimples to direct the ball to different locations on the table, especially focusing on their weaker side, or into the middle area where they will have to decide between a forehand or backhand.

3. Keeping the ball low:  This means the attacker has less margin to work with and can lead to more errors from them.

4. Dead Block: A 'chop block' is essentially a block with very little forward motion, using the long pimples to absorb the energy and give a ball with very little spin and speed. This can be effective against hitters as it doesn't give them much energy to work with.

5. Attack When Possible: It can be beneficial to go on the offensive when the opportunity arises. Even with long pimples, you can generate a surprising attack, especially on balls that come to you with backspin. This forces the hitter to be more cautious and can give you more defensive opportunities as it throws them off their rhythm.  The attack doesn't even have to be very strong, just a good enough variation from your defensive strokes.