Wilson RF 01 vs Blade 98: A Comparison of Two Tennis Racquets

Vegas Tennis Team
4 Min Read

Wilson’s Blade 98 and RF 01 rackets have become favorites among intermediate to advanced recreational players, thanks to their remarkable blend of power, spin, and precision.

The RF 01 was crafted in collaboration with the legendary Roger Federer, while the Blade 98 enjoys endorsements from top WTA and ATP talents, including Stefanos Tsitsipas, Aryna Sabalenka, and Emma Raducanu.

In this article, we will dive into the specifications of both rackets to see how they stack up against each other.

Wilson RF 01 and Blade 98 Comparison

Comparing the Wilson RF 01 and Blade 98

For this comparison, I’m looking at the V9 version of the Blade 98 alongside the V1 of the RF 01.

Specifications Overview

Specifications: RF 01 Blade 98
Version: V1 V9
Design: Wilson RF 01 Racket Blade 98 V9 Racket
Head Size: 98 sq in 98 sq in
Length: 27 in 27 in
Strung Weight: 337g (11.9oz) 323g (11.4oz)
Swingweight: 331 324
Balance: 6 Pts HL 4 Pts HL
Stiffness: 67 62
Power: Low Low
Beam Width: 23.2mm / 23mm / 22mm 21mm
Composition: Carbon + Carbon Braid Graphite
Colors: Black Green
String Pattern: 16 x 19 16 x 19
Grip Type: Leather Grip Wilson Pro Performance

Length and Head Size

Both rackets offer a standard length of 27 inches and a 98 square inch head size, allowing for versatility and adaptability for players seeking an ideal mix of reach and agility.

This design gives both rackets the edge for various playing styles, from aggressive baseline tactics to an all-court approach.

Balance

The RF 01 (with a balance of 6 pts HL) is designed to be more head-light in comparison to the Blade 98 (with 4 pts HL), making it particularly advantageous for players who prefer a one-handed backhand, as a head-light racket enhances maneuverability and control.

Strung and Swing Weight

The RF 01 has a higher swing and strung weight relative to the Blade 98, which provides more power, stability, and plow-through when striking the ball.

Stiffness Rating

The stiffness rating of the Blade 98 (62) is lower than that of the RF 01 (67), yet neither racket is particularly known for being exceptionally arm-friendly or comfortable for prolonged play.

Beam Width

Both models feature relatively slim beam widths (23.2mm / 23mm / 22mm vs. 21mm), resulting in enhanced control, touch, and flexibility.

Power

Both rackets are categorized as low-powered; however, the RF 01, with its thicker beam and heavier construction, offers slightly more power. If generating power is your primary goal, consider options like the Babolat Pure Drive or the Wilson Clash 100 instead.

String Pattern

With a 16 x 19 string pattern, both rackets excel at spin generation, making them ideal for players who prioritize spin in their game.

Design

While I find the designs of the V9 and V8 Blade 98 models less appealing, I appreciate the sleek aesthetics of the RF 01, which showcases a more polished and visually attractive look.

Where to Purchase?

You can find both rackets available on major online retailers like Tennis Warehouse and Tennis-Point.

Who Should Choose These Rackets?

As a beginner or intermediate player, I wouldn’t recommend these rackets due to their more challenging nature, lower power levels, and relatively small sweet spots.

However, for advanced players, these racquets present a great fit, offering superior control and decent spin for a wide range of all-court gameplay.

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