Return of side spin combination serves

Sir, my question is on return of serve.  Let’s take an example of side spin back spin pendulum serve from opponent’s back hand side to my back hand corner (which is a very common service).

Now, if I just lift it with a little topspin with my backhand, it’s just fine, but many times I don’t get enough confidence to do it, especially in a critical stage of a match.

Further, if I just try to play a gentle push, the ball pops up in the air and go right side and miss the table.  But, if I allow the ball to spin for a little more time in air and touch a while later (push), I can manage to put it low over the net.

So, Sir, please advise me whether it is the right way to return such type of serve.  Can I apply the same technique to the other type of side spin combination serves, like allow the ball to spin  a little more time in the air and touch it a bit later.

… Debo

Hi Debo,

Hitting the return late is one way of dealing with the spin.  It does mean that the ball will be spinning less but the disadvantage is that it gives the server more time to see your return.

My advice is to deal with the serve like this in matches for now but try to develop your ability to return the ball when hitting it earlier.  This will involve learning the angles you need on your racket. This will come with more exposure to serves.  We also have this information in our Receiving Secrets lessons.