Mastering the Backhand Flick
By Coach Sarah•6 min read
The Art of the Backhand Flick
The backhand flick is one of the most effective ways to attack a short serve. It allows you to take initiative early in the rally and put your opponent under immediate pressure. If you're still working on your grip, revisit our fundamentals guide.
The Setup
Stay close to the table. As you recognize a short ball, step in with your dominant foot to get your body close to the point of contact. Your elbow should be slightly out, and your wrist should be cocked back.
The Contact
Wait for the ball to reach its highest point. Use a sharp, snappy motion with your wrist to "flick" the ball over the net. For backspin balls, you'll need more upward motion; for topspin or no-spin, you can drive through the ball more horizontally.