Felix Auger-Aliassime's Racket: Specs And Review

by Jhon Lennon 49 views

Hey tennis fans! Ever wondered about the magic wand that Felix Auger-Aliassime wields on the court? Well, you're in the right place. We're diving deep into the specifics of Felix's tennis racket, exploring what makes it tick, and why it's such a great fit for his game. Knowing the equipment that a pro uses gives insight into how they play and can even help you choose a racket that complements your style.

Decoding the Racket of Felix Auger-Aliassime

When we talk about Felix Auger-Aliassime's tennis racket, we're really talking about a finely-tuned piece of equipment designed to enhance his strengths on the court. Let's break down the key elements that define his racket:

  • Make and Model: Felix endorses the Wilson Blade 98 (18x20). Wilson Blade rackets are popular among tour players because of their feel and control-oriented nature. It allows players like Felix to really dictate the ball, hit flat, and take the ball early.
  • Head Size: The Wilson Blade 98 has a 98 square inch head size. This is on the smaller side for modern rackets, which favors precision and control over raw power. A smaller head size encourages players to hit the sweet spot more consistently, which in turn rewards them with a more solid feel and better ball placement.
  • Weight: Typically, a racket like the Wilson Blade 98 unstrung weighs around 11.3 ounces (320 grams). However, professional players often customize their rackets to match their specific needs. Felix likely adds weight to his racket to increase its stability and power. Players add weight to the handle for balance or to the head for more plow through and power.
  • Balance: The balance point of a racket affects how it feels in your hand and how easy it is to maneuver. A head-light balance, which is common in many advanced rackets, makes it easier to swing quickly and react at the net. Given Felix's aggressive baseline game and willingness to come forward, a head-light balance would suit him well.
  • String Pattern: The Wilson Blade 98 comes in two string patterns: 16x19 and 18x20. Felix uses the denser 18x20 string pattern. This means there are more strings packed into the string bed, resulting in a tighter, more controlled response. Players who like to flatten out their shots and take big swings often prefer denser string patterns.
  • Grip Size: Grip size is a very personal preference. Most male professional tennis players use grip sizes between 4 3/8" (Size 3) and 4 5/8" (Size 5). Felix likely uses a grip size in this range that allows him to comfortably hold and manipulate the racket during his powerful strokes.
  • Customization: This is where things get interesting. Professional players like Felix rarely use stock rackets straight off the shelf. They work with racket technicians to fine-tune every aspect of their racket, from the weight and balance to the grip and even the paint job. This customization ensures that the racket is perfectly suited to their game and preferences. This may include silicone in the handle, lead tape in the hoop, or overgrips to make the grip bigger.

Why This Racket Works for Felix

So, why does the Wilson Blade 98 (18x20) work so well for Felix Auger-Aliassime? Let's consider his playing style and how this racket complements his strengths:

  • Powerful Baseline Game: Felix is known for his aggressive baseline game, characterized by powerful groundstrokes and a willingness to dictate play. The Blade 98 provides the control and stability he needs to hit those shots with precision and consistency.
  • Flat Hitting: Felix hits a flatter ball, especially off the forehand side, than most players on tour. The denser 18x20 string pattern of the Wilson Blade 98 allows him to flatten out his shots and control the ball effectively.
  • Serving Prowess: Felix has a strong serve, and the Blade 98 helps him generate racket head speed and power. The balance and weight distribution of the racket allow him to swing freely and confidently, resulting in a more potent serve.
  • All-Court Versatility: While Felix is primarily a baseliner, he's also comfortable coming to the net to finish points. The Blade 98's maneuverability allows him to react quickly at the net and hit volleys with precision.

Could This Racket Work for You?

Now, for the million-dollar question: could the Wilson Blade 98 (18x20) be the right racket for you? Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

  • Playing Level: This racket is best suited for intermediate to advanced players who have well-developed swings and a good understanding of the game. If you're a beginner, you might find it challenging to generate enough power and control with this racket.
  • Playing Style: If you're an aggressive baseliner who likes to hit with power and precision, the Blade 98 could be a great fit. It's also a good choice for players who value control and feel over raw power.
  • Physical Strength: The Blade 98 is a heavier racket, so you'll need a decent level of strength to swing it effectively. If you're not physically strong, you might want to consider a lighter racket.

Alternatives to Consider

If the Wilson Blade 98 (18x20) sounds appealing but you're not quite sure if it's the right fit, here are a few alternatives to consider:

  • Wilson Blade 98 (16x19): This version of the Blade 98 has a more open string pattern (16x19), which provides more power and spin potential.
  • Babolat Pure Drive: This racket is known for its power and is a good choice for players who want to hit with maximum force.
  • Head Graphene 360+ Speed Pro: This racket offers a good balance of power and control and is a popular choice among tour players.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a tennis racket is a personal journey, and what works for Felix Auger-Aliassime might not work for you. However, understanding the specs and characteristics of his racket can provide valuable insights into what to look for in your own equipment. I hope this article has been helpful! If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below.

Remember, the best way to find the right racket is to demo a few different models and see which one feels best in your hand. Happy hitting!