Returning sidespin/backspin serve
Receiving
eugene lu Asked 9 years ago
Hi Alois,
I found it quite difficult to return a sidespin/backspin serve, because of the awkwardness of the spin. When I try to push it the ball will fly of the the table because of the sidespin . And if I try to steer the ball back on to the table, it ends up in the net because of the backspin. It's like I can only focus on one type of spin. So how do I return this serve.
Alois Rosario Answered 9 years ago
Hi Eugene,
Try to think of it as one spin. It is dragging down and sideways so aim to the other extremity. It will soon become natural for you.
For our Premium members we have some nice simple explanations of returning spin in our Receiving Secrets lesson on Reading Spin and Receiving Principles that will help.
Recommended Video
Fake Movements
After the ball has left the server's bat, they can no longer affect the spin that is on the ball. Any movements after the contact are referred to as fake movements and are meant to confuse you as the receiver. You need to focus on the contact to read the spin.
Watch NowThoughts on this question
Become a free member to post a comment about this question.
eugene lu Posted 9 years ago
So do you mean using a push to impart the backspin then drag the ball to the opposite side of where the sidespin intend to make the ball go?
You can aim upwards and then to the opposite direction to where the spin wants to drag it. Rather than drag it across, just use the angle of your racket to aim to the side.