Returning sidespin serve in center
Receiving
Ricky Patnaik Asked 11 years ago
What is the best retrun technique if my opponent is putting side spin on his serve. He is serving standing towards the middle of the board and landing very close to center line on my side. If I stand facing my opponent the ball lands and spins toward my left hand side. If possible please suggest an attack technique and also a defensive one.
Alois Rosario Answered 11 years ago
Hi Ricky,
This is all about getting good position to play your stroke. Because they are serving to the middle you need to move one way or the other. Move to the direction that you prefer, forehand or backhand. See which feels more comfortable to hit that type of sidespin swinging to your left. Each person will have their own preference.
Then make a topspin stroke if the ball is long. If the ball is short you can push the ball, remembering to allow for the sidespin by adjusting the angle of your racket.
Question actions
Recommended Video
Returning Short Topspin Serves: Two Options
Returning a short topspin serve can be tricky because the spin wants to lift the ball up. In this video, we look at two effective options: developing an attacking flick and learning how to push the ball safely.
For the flick, the key is to be positive. Take a few risks, hit through the ball a little harder, and aim for a fast, flat contact. In practice, don’t worry too much about making mistakes as this is how you learn to control the shot under pressure.
The second option is the push. You can push a short topspin serve, but you need to adjust your contact. Instead of getting under the ball, come down the back of it more, almost feeling like your bat is moving slightly backwards. This helps counter the topspin and keeps the return lower and more controlled.
Watch NowNo comments yet!
Become a free member to post a comment about this question.