Return slow spinny loop

Dariusz Jankowski Unknown Asked 16 years ago

Hi,

I would like to get some advice about what are the best methods of return slow spinny loop. Usually opponents wait for my weak return and attack their 5th ball with smash or fast topspin. I would like to return in the way which will not able to do kill shot by my opponent.
If I would like to do contra-topspin, what proportion of speed/spin and stroke direction I need to do?

Thanks for any answer.

Alois Rosario Answered 16 years ago

Hi Dariusz,

There are a couple of ways to return the slow topspin.  One is to block the ball.  You need to have quite soft hands for this to absorb the spin.

A second method is to punch the ball.  To do this think of punching the ball with a short jab.  You only need to ball on the bat for a short time with this and punch it directly to where you want it to go.

Thirdly you can counter topspin the ball.  this is the most difficult of the three. I like to have quite an open racket for this come over the ball during the swing.  You need to be able to feel the ball well to do this.  The other way is to hae your bat closed over.  This is  a more risky shot as the ball isn't seeing as much of the bat face.  You stroke needs to come straight forward.  You don't need to lift the ball at all as it already has the topspin on it. Often a faster swing will be easier as you will genereate your own direction.  If your bat is moving too slow the ball will take off on you.

Experiment for yourself and see what works best for you.  Again remember this is a very difficult stroke because the ball is dipping and spinning and you are trying to topspin it back.