Playing against massive top/side spin

Ryan Thompson Asked 13 years ago

Hey there, loving your site!

I mainly play at work, but we do get super competitive so I had to join your site to get that edge ;) I can beat pretty much everyone except one guy that uses a penhold type grip. He puts a crazy amount of top and side spin on the ball. Most of his returns and rallies come at me pretty high but I'm having a hard time returning them. My returns are very random and unpredictable. 

Typically, what type of stroke should I use against that? Return with topspin or backspin? I know it's probably isn't that simple of an answer but any tips against this type of player would be helpful.

Thank you 

Alois Rosario Answered 13 years ago

Hi Ryan,

Against these types of players you can get to a level where they won't be able to handle your topspin any more.  Try to make a topspin stroke. If you brush the ball fast it will both give him less time for the next ball and also make it easier for you to get the ball to go where you want it.  If you play tentatively at it his spin will take the ball where he wants you to hit it.

Be decisive with your topspin and soon he won't have any answers for you.