Question

How does the angle of the racket affect the spin, speed, and control of the ball in a backhand topspin shot? Why is adjusting the racket angle important?

Answer 1

A slightly closed racket angle helps brush the ball with an upward-and-forward stroke, producing topspin and a controlled, dipping trajectory. A more direct racket face can send the ball faster but may reduce spin and make it harder to keep the ball on the table. Adjusting the angle to suit the incoming ball helps balance spin, speed and accuracy, and reduces the chances of hitting into the net or sending the ball long.