Sidespin service return

Ji-Soo Woo Asked 14 years ago

Hi Alois

When returning a long sidespin serve, is it better (as in more consistent) to:

1) put sidespin on the return?

or

2) concentrate on the top/backspin component, and do a standard loop response accordingly, accounting for the sidespin only in where you aim.

And if you do put sidespin, do you get more control spinning the ball in the SAME direction as the serve or AGAINST the spin of the serve?

Thanks

Ji-Soo

Alois Rosario Answered 14 years ago

Hi Ji-Soo,

The best response would be to topspin the return with straight topspin and not trying to put any sidespin.  By brushing the ball heavily with topspin you will tend to counter the spin that is on the ball already.