Playing fast counter hitter

Rama Camatchee Asked 9 years ago

Dear Coach,

My style is to serve short backspin followed by a semi- strong Topspin (provided the ball is long).

However, today I played against a player who has very strong reflex and would return fast and low ball and side to side.

The player does not play any Topspin and returns backspin with a push just above net level.

I lost my matches as the player will rally any Topspin ball with a fast return at net level (but zero Topspin).

What strategy can I adopt against such a consistent player.

Regards

Rama

Alois Rosario Answered 9 years ago

Hi Rama,

This type of player relies on your speed to outpace you.  Try to vary the spin and speed of your shots.  Often a slower topspin is more effective than a fast one.  After the slower topspin they may give you a higher ball or a slower ball that you can play faster.

We have a lesson in our Match Strategy section on Playing A Blocker which is what you are looking for.