Choosing the right tennis racket determines how effectively a player can fulfil their potential on the court. Whether beginner or professional, the right equipment contributes to better control and power of strokes and helps to avoid injuries. In 2024, the choice is even more technologically complex as innovations from major brands offer new levels of control and comfort.
Choosing the wrong parameters, such as weight or balance, can lead to increased wrist fatigue or even injury. For beginners, for example, a racket that is too heavy puts additional strain on the wrist, while a lighter racket can limit the performance potential of professionals.
Racquet types and their suitability for different levels of play
When choosing a tennis racket, the level of play should be taken into account, as the different models offer different characteristics for beginners and professionals.
Tennis rackets for beginners: what parameters should be considered?
Beginners should choose the instrument that allows them to master the basic elements of the game more quickly without overloading their muscles and joints. Some important features will help you make the right choice:
- Racket weight: lightweight rackets weighing between 250 and 280 grams are suitable for beginners. The Babolat Drive Lite, for example, weighs 270 grams and is ideal for light control.
- Head size: The large hitting area (over 105 square inches) makes it easier to hit the ball and minimises errors. At 115 square inches, the Head Ti S6 offers the perfect combination of power and control.
- Balance: A balance closer to the head (330-340 mm) facilitates powerful shots.
Choosing a professional racket: key factors
Tennis pros have very different requirements for their rackets. Stiffness, weight and material play an important role:
- Weight: rackets for professionals usually weigh 300-340 grams. The Wilson Pro Staff 97, which weighs 315 grams, is regarded as the benchmark for aggressive and precise play.
- Stiffness: The higher the stiffness, the better the power transfer. The Head Graphene 360+ has a stiffness coefficient of 70 RA, which enables a significant increase in hitting power.
- Materials: The use of graphite and carbon fibre makes the rackets more controllable. The Yonex VCORE Pro 97, for example, offers high flexibility and control thanks to the Namd material.
These parameters ensure maximum performance and precision at ATP and WTA tournaments.
How do you choose a customised tennis racket?
The different brands offer different approaches in terms of technology and price. Below you will find some of the most popular manufacturers:
- Wilson: models from budget to premium. The Wilson Clash 100 costs from $200 and offers innovative flexibility.
- Head: known for its advanced technologies such as Graphene 360+. The Head Radical MP model for $230 is perfect for the mid-range.
- Babolat: The focus is on power. The Babolat Pure Drive for $230 offers excellent hitting power.
How do I choose a tennis racket based on material and performance?
The materials used to make tennis rackets have a significant impact on their performance and comfort while playing:
- Graphite: provides lightness and power. The Yonex Ezone offers an excellent balance between manoeuvrability and power.
- Composite: a combination of graphite and other materials, such as Prince Textreme Tour, ideal for the intermediate level.
- Aluminium: inexpensive and lightweight, suitable for beginners. The Head Instinct Team is recommended for beginners.
The choice of material depends on the player’s experience and playing preferences.
The best tennis rackets 2024: top models for every level
The choice of the right model depends directly on the player’s level of experience. In 2024, the market offers a wide range of options for every level.
Ranking of tennis rackets for beginners and professionals
To make your choice easier, here is a ranking of the best tennis rackets for 2024:
- Babolat Pure Aero – suitable for professionals and advanced amateurs, promotes powerful topspin thanks to aerodynamic improvements. The Cortex Pure Feel technology reduces vibrations and increases playing comfort. The price for this model is around $240.
- Wilson Blade 98 – offers excellent stability and comfort, ideal for advanced players. The weight is 305 grams and the FeelFlex technology provides a natural feel of flexibility and control. The price ranges from $220-$250.
- Head Graphene 360+ Speed Pro – the choice of Novak Djokovic, provides stability and control while playing at a high level. Utilises Graphene 360+ technology, which improves energy transfer and makes shots powerful and precise. The price of the racket is around $260.
Racquets for men and women: differences and recommendations
Tennis rackets for men and women can be different. Weight, balance and grip size are the main differences:
- For women: Lightweight models, like the Wilson Ultra 100 at 277 grams with improved stability, make it easier to control. The Power Rib technology increases stability, especially on hard hits. The price is around 210 dollars.
- For men: Heavy models such as the Head Radical Pro offer maximum power and are suitable for aggressive play. They weigh 310 grams, the Graphene 360+ technology improves stiffness and impact power and are priced at around 240 dollars.
The women’s models have a thinner handle for more grip and comfort. The Babolat Pure Strike, for example, has special grip sizes for women that improve playing comfort.
Conclusion
Choosing the right tennis racket plays a crucial role in your success on the court. The wrong instrument can lead to injuries such as tendonitis due to inadequate weight and balance control. Test several models thoroughly to find the one that maximises comfort and performance.