Service Return
Receiving
Pedja Maric Asked 13 years ago
Hi, Alois and Jeff,
I have a certain issue and I would like some advice. There is a guy who serves side spin and reverse side spin. Now, I adjust the angle of my bat to the rotation, but the problem is, it goes long and then he top spins the ball. How can I keep the ball low and short? I tried a flick even but the ball goes into the net. For example, he is left handed, and serves regular side spin, and the ball goes to my forehand. I tried forehand flick, and the ball goes right into the net. Please tell me what should I do
Alois Rosario Answered 13 years ago
Hi Pedja,
Try to get the ball close to the bounce. Also keep your hand relaxed to absorb some of the spin and speed.
It may be that you are not reading the amount of spin on the ball. Keep giving yourself the opportunity to return these serves.
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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.
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