How to Pick a Tennis Racket for Yourself
If you’re getting ready to consistently dominate a tennis match, you’re going to need to learn what racquet features to consider when purchasing a tennis racquet. Of course, before you can get started with the game, you’re going to need a couple things such as the perfect pair of shoes, a ball, and a net. Needless to say, your racquet is going to play a huge part in your performance. So, read on as we dive into some tips for selecting the perfect racquet while also noting the racquet choice of some of the world’s top players past and present.
What Rackets Do Tennis Stars Use?
- Roger Federer: Wilson BLX Six.One Tour 90
- Novak Djokovic: Head YouTek Speed Pro
- Rafael Nadal: Babolat Aeropro Drive
- Andy Murray: Head YouTek Radical MP
- Juan Martin Del Potro: Wilson BLX Pro Tour
- Serena Williams: Wilson [K] Blade Team
- Dinara Safina: Babolat Aero Storm
- Caroline Wozniacki: Babolat Aeropro Drive
- Svetlana Kuznetsova: Head YouTek Extreme MP
- Venus Williams: Wilson [K] Blade Team
Head Size
The perfect head-size ratio will have an effect on your swing. So, knowing the ideal head size is important for both skill level and preference. Smaller head sizes increase your control, while larger ones provide you with a powerful swing.
However, if you’re new to the sport it might be a great idea to start with a larger one. Beginner tennis rackets should then come with a wider and heavier head. Racquets usually range from anywhere between nine ounces and 11 ounces. Heavier tennis racquets will ensure that you have more power while lighter ones will make control and maneuvering a breeze.
Additionally, players usually choose a weight depending on if they’re playing more doubles or singles. Industry experts have suggested that if you’re going for more doubles, a lighter option will be more appropriate since control, precision, and touch will win points more often than power. If you’re going for singles, a heavier racquet will be perfect for hitting through the court.
Length
Generally adult racquets are 27 inches in length and can easily go up to 29 inches. Longer racquets allow players to get a greater reach on groundstrokes. It even provides them with better leverage for serving and it gives players more power.
However, longer racquets offer less control since they lead to players experiencing a higher weight when swinging. Shorter racquets are generally easier to handle for some smaller players. If you’re in the process of selecting a junior racquet, you’re going to need to consider the players’ age. Juniors are shorter and come in various sizes.
If you’re selecting tennis racquets for players under the age of eight, 19 to 23 inches are best suited. Those which range between 23 and 25 inches can facilitate players anywhere between nine and 10 years of age. If players are adjusting to a 78-foot court, a 26-incher is perfect.
Grip Size
When it comes to touching your racquet, you’re going to need something to help with control. So when deciding on the grip size, you’re going to need to hold the racquet as a forehand. When you do this, you’re going to notice that there’s the width of about a finger to a pencil between your palm and your fingers.
Pre-String Vs Unstrung
When you head out to purchase a new tennis racquet, you will find some that are already strung and others that are not. However, the choice is dependent on your level of expertise. Pre-strung usually has their string all set in place and they are great for those who play on a recreational level. Pre-strung offers players a pretty high level of versatility.
However, unstrung racquets make the perfect device for players who plan to tailor their string. Advanced players can easily customize the tension in their strings to suit their style of playing. More often than not, strings are usually overlooked. However, they make a pretty huge impact on a player’s performance. So, be sure to choose the perfect racquet to help you dominate the court.
As we conclude, we have just looked at some important tips on how to choose the ultimate tennis racquet to help you excel on the courts. We’ve also looked at worldwide champions and their trusty selections. So, keep in mind that every part of your racquet is important and requires some knowledge before you make your selection.
References:
https://protips.dickssportinggoods.com/sports-and-activities/racquet-sports/buying-a-tennis-racquet
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