Ma Lin's Receiving Position

Devin Hirsch Asked 9 years ago

Hi Alois,

Whenever I watch Ma Lin, he positions himself way over to his left to receive the serves.  And yet I never see his opponents serving a fast down-the-line serve away from his body, and out of his reach. 

I ask this because I am also a penhold player and I was wondering where I should position myself to receive service.  How close to the table, and where?

Sorry if the question was too long, but thank you in advance! Devin

Alois Rosario Answered 9 years ago

Hi Devin,

Ma Lin has exceptional footwork and forehand.  He sets himself up wide on his backhand side before the serve.  If you notice though, a lot of the time, he moves in closer as soon as he sees the ball toss and the server starts his action.

I think for most of us, it is better to set up inside the backhand line.  I think the main thing we can get from Ma Lin is his movement during the service making it easier to move to the ball.