Return long sidespin serve

Table Tennis Service Return

Last updated 8 years ago

alberto behrens

alberto behrens Asked 11 years ago

How do i return long sidespin serve to my forehand.  The spin from the serve is floating the ball to my right. should i back up and attempt to topspin return?  thanks


Alois Rosario

Alois Rosario Answered 11 years ago

Hi Manuel,

If the serve only bounces once on your side then you should topspin it.

If the ball is floating away from you, move your feet sideways rather than too far back so that you can get the ball earlier.  The key is to be in good position to make the topspin stroke.


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Marcin Lonak

Marcin Lonak Posted 8 years ago

Hello Alois, Hello Jeff

What if im late with my position, so im caught offguard?

What is the best option? If the serve is for example a bh ss/ts serve to my bh corner. the ball will be heavily dragged outwards. So block is probably very risky and just along the line possible. should i put som side spin on return as well. wich sidespin works better in this case? or can i have good results, especially in placing, with an active block?

I could experiment this with my training partner but unfortunately he is proud of his sidespin serve and i dont think he will serve it many times to me in a row. thats why i ask the coach


Alois Rosario

Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 8 years ago

Hi Marcin,

An active block or very short topspin is probably the best option.  If you mainly use your wrist rather than your whole arm, you will have more time.



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