Wilson Pro Staff Rf97 Federer U3 Tennis Racket 4 3/8 Inches Autograph

The Pro Staff RF97 Autograph adds an impressive chapter to the iconic Pro Staff story, a story that is already crowded with Hall of Fame players and Grand Slam victories. It seems only fitting that the Pro Staff legend include a racquet engineered under the guidance of Roger Federer, the man for whom this version of the Pro Staff was made. For our playtest team, the key to this formidable beast of a racquet rested squarely upon its weight. Pushing nearly 13 ounces, the RF97 delivered the unmistakable and incalculable benefits of stability. There was also some serious power to be had when our mechanics were sound and the mass was effectively deployed. On volleys, the rock solid feel, amazing touch and controllable power were simply undeniable. Service returns were also a high point, in large part because this racquet’s mass allowed us to counterpunch the biggest serves with ease. On the flip side, the higher weight posed some challenges for each playtester. It made some of us yearn for the explosive whip of our modern (lighter) player’s racquets. The Pro Staff RF97 Autograph is supposed to be a little challenging for us mortals, but the payoff for wielding Federer’s racquet correctly is simply as good as it gets.