Trouble returning a backhand serve
Receiving
Federick Yam Asked 14 years ago
I recently encounter a kind of serve. The Opponent serve a backhand serve (either top side or under side spin) on the right hand side of the table. I try to loop it, but the success rate is low and a lot of time is off the table. What is right racket angle and way to handle this serve.
Federick Yam
Alois Rosario Answered 14 years ago
Hi Frederick,
It sounds like they were changing the serve spin. That means you have to adjust your return each time for the type of spin. If there is topspin you need to come more over the top of the ball. If there is backspin you need to lift the ball more.
Watch each time you return and see what happens to the ball. This will teach you each time you make a return.
There is also a lot of information in our Receiving Secrets course.
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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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Federick Yam Posted 14 years ago
Alois,
Thank you for your quick reply. The opponent is serving from the right hand side, when the ball hits my racket, it will bounce to the left either up or down (depends on either top or under spin. I shall turn my racket angle a little to right either on top of the ball or push it up. Is this the right way to handle this kind of serve. Please advise. Furthermore, I would like to know whether I can download the video Clip of the answers from ASk the Coach. Please advise.
Federick Yam
Hi Federick,
It sounds like you've got the right idea when trying to return this serve. To do it well, you need to pick the spin that is on the ball. If it is sidespin and topsin, then you need to counter for the topspin by closing your bat and also allow for the sidespin by aiming more to the right as you suggest. If the serve has backspin and topspin, then you need to come under the ball more with your bat angle open, and still aiming to the right to counter the sidespin. Let me know if this helps you.
Currently it is not possible to download the ask the coach videos. I'm working on this feature right now for premium members. I'll let you know once it is ready so you can start downloading your favourite video responses.
Federick Yam Posted 14 years ago
Thank you for your advise. I will try to apply this technique.
Federick Yam
Caleb The Posted 14 years ago
thanx!!!
helped me out a lot