The Lawnmower Backhand
The backhand loop can generate a lot of topspin when used to it’s full potential, a lot more than might seem.
Against a cut ball or backspin, your backhand swing needs to change a bit in order to get the ball over the net. It’s important to remember when looping a cut ball on backhand or forehand to aim way over, over the forest, and to not go through like a regular ball, otherwise your ball will end up in the net.
Unlike a regular backhand swing, against a cut ball you’re going to get lower down and swing much more vertical.
The best way I like to think of it is like pulling a lawnmower.
Bend down to incorporate your legs into the swing. Remember your legs are much stronger than your arms, so using your legs can generate a lot more power and (if you want to) let you ease up on your upper body, allowing better control, or to just give it a rest.
Open your bat a bit more than your normal swing, so your ball doesn’t end up in the net. Bring your arm down between your legs. Drop your right shoulder down (if you are right handed) and rotate your wrist to the left.
When the ball comes, start pushing off with your legs and pulling your arm up just like pulling the lawnmower.
Upon contact with the ball, you want to snap your wrist. But you don’t want to allow your wrist to flop back after your shot, this might cause your ball to drop; keep your wrist stiff. You should end with your wrist in normal position.
Samsonov has a solid swing which has allowed him to become a top player. Notice the difference between his normal back swing and his loop against the cut ball in this video:
He gets way down and snaps his wrist upon contact, giving him mega-spin. Notice his wrist rotating down when he starts and his finished wrist position is back to normal.
The reason his bat can remain so closed on both his regular and loop shots is because of his snap and power. He is able to lift the ball over the net because of his wrist power. Timo Boll has another great backhand to watch.
