Backspin

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In racquet sports, Backspin also known as underspin, is a shot such that the ball rotates backwards (as though rolling back towards the player) after it is hit. The trajectory of the shot involves an upward force (Magnus Effect) that lifts the ball. A backspin shot is useful for defensive shots because a backspin shot takes longer to travel to the opponent, giving the defender more time to get back into position. Also, backspin shots tend to bounce lower once then reach the opposite court, making them more difficult to attack. This is especially important in table tennis because one must wait for the ball to bounce before hitting it, whereas in tennis the opponent may be able to volley the ball.

In golf, backspin is also evident. A well struck golf shot will result in a large amount of backspin that will carry the ball higher into the air and further. Backspin also helps with distance control as if there is enough backspin, the ball will "check" if it lands on the putting surface, and sometimes even creep backwards (in the opposite direction that the ball was flying) upon landing.