This stroke is used when the player is far from the table -approximately 3-4m (9.8-13.1ft)- and he wants to return an opponent's forehand or backhand topspin. It is adifficult stroke because it requires good perception, neuro­muscular coordination, very good technical knowledge and perfect timing.

The body position is the same with the fast forehand topspin stroke. The legs are bent and open slightly more than a shoulders' width apart while the right arm is slightly bent.As the ball approaches, the player pivots around the left foot, turns his body towards the right shifting his body weight to the right foot. The right hand stretches and the racket moves to a point slightly behind and below the right knee. The forward counterclockwise movement of the right hand starts from this position, just as it does with the fast forehand topspin. There is a difference though, in that the racket angle is greater and the hand stops in front of the head a little lower than eye level. The racket contacts the ball after the ball descends from its highest point after it bounces. The left hand follows the body movement and helps keep the balance. During the movement the body weight is transferred towards thefront so it will help the player execute the stroke. The arm movement speed depends on the playing style and the speed of the ball.

Source: Table Tennis: From A to Z e-book

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