Receive serve with reverse backhand from forehand side

Jeff M Asked 9 years ago

Hi Alois and Jeff, I find it difficult to receive serve with reverse backhand penhold (flick) from the forehand side to deliver the ball back to the opponent's forehand (i.e. cross court). Is it possible to still do that action if I hold the racket with my fingers spread out straight along my backhand rubber? It seems to me that I have to twist my wrist more than if I were to return the ball to the opponent's backhand (i.e. same side of the court). Do you have any tips for me?

Thank you.

Alois Rosario Answered 9 years ago

Hi Jeff,

Having the fingers spread will make it more difficult to use the wrist which is an important part of this stroke.

← Pro players that need to slow down Reverse Penhold Backhand Angle →

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Jeff M Posted 9 years ago

Thanks Alois, in that case, should I change to curling up my fingers? Or should I keep my fingers curled up until the ball becomes long then I will spread out my fingers to have my normal hits?

Bennett Brown Posted 9 years ago

I play with japanese penhold paddle for the support, but i keep my fingers curled a bit for my reverse backhand penhold.

I would not recommend changing from straight to curled if its a major difference, but if its just an inch or less, you are fine

Romeo Chua Posted 9 years ago

try facing the spot where you want the ball to go to. I've tried it and it works for me. I don't think the grips matter