Ma Long chopping
Strategy
Johan B Asked 9 years ago
Hey!
Seeing Ma Long winning that last tournament, I can't help but notice how much chopping and chop blocking he does. How much do you think it contributes to his game?
Alois Rosario Answered 9 years ago
Hi Johan,
I think the short push is a vital part of his game. His defensive backhand block is also super and allows him to stay in a point until he has the opportunity to make the attacking stroke.
Even on match point you will see this in play. He hangs in with the backhand block till he moves himself into position and has a fraction more time to make the attacking backhand that wins him the point.
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Tactics Against Penhold Players
When playing penhold players it is important to remember to first analyse your opponent as you would if they used any grip. What are their strengths and weaknesses? A common weakness of penhold players is their forehand block especially against a slow spinny topspin. Their backhand may be a weakness if they use the traditional style, or you may wish to explore the crossover point if they are using the reverse penhold backhand.
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Johan B Posted 9 years ago
I agree completely with that, but I was actually more referring to actual chopping, especially on the backhand. There was also a fantastic rally, though, where he did two great forehand chops in a row before counter attacking