Roger Federer’s Tennis Racket

Roger Federer is, without the slightest doubt, one of the greatest and most successful tennis players in history. He has dominated the game for decades and won every big trophy and grand slam, setting new, unprecedented records. His talent and work ethic is a rare gift that has set him up for success; however, many of his countless fans wonder what Roger Federer’s racket is and if it might be the secret weapon that makes all the difference on the court. 

If you are wondering too, and honestly, who can blame you for it, you just landed on the right page. In this article, you’ll find all the details of Roger Federer’s tennis racket, including all the technical details and the past history, which can serve you a big deal as an inspiration for your own game if you aim to follow the tennis superstar’s footsteps. Keep scrolling!

Roger Federer Tennis Racket Specifications

Wilson Pro Staff RF97 Autograph has the proper design of a champion’s racket. The frame has a minimalistic and classic design, with luxurious details to make the difference and an incredible paint job to finish it off. It has a small 97 sq” head with an open 16×19 string pattern that offers the perfect mix of ultimate control over the ball, and manageable power, that never becomes overwhelming. 

Roger Federer’s racket weight is quite hefty at 355 grams, which might scare many players as it’s not the easiest to maneuver, especially near the net. If you can handle it, though, this frame is perfect for heavy flat serves and full swings, making it possible to hit all the targets on the opponent’s side of the court with high precision. 

Roger Federer’s Wilson racket is incredibly solid, and with an 8-point headlight balance, it can transform into a real weapon back in the baseline, allowing the player to redirect the ball and control its trajectory. With a little effort and the right skills, this racket makes it very easy to generate spin and speed, as well. 

On the downside, it does feel quite stiff, which can be a challenge for the off-center shots during big serves, as you will most likely feel the harsh vibrations on your arm. Needless to say, RF97A is suitable only for advanced levels; any other player would have it difficult to play with it. 

Wilson Pro Staff RF97 Autograph tennis racket specs:

• Head size: 97 sq” / 626 cm²
• Length: 27 inches / 68.58 cm
• Weight (strung): 12.53 oz / 355 g
• Balance: 8 pts HL 
• Stiffness: 67 RA 
• Swing weight: 337
• Beam width: 21.5 mm / 21.5 mm / 21.5 mm
• String pattern: 16 mains / 19 crosses 
• Composition: Graphite braided with Aramid / Kevlar
• Grip type: Wilson Leather Grip 

What Size Grip Does Federer Use?

The grip size of Roger Federer’s grip racket is 4 3/8 inches. While it might look rather small for a player like Federer, this is a deliberate decision so that he can maximize spin, have easier access to the racket’s acceleration, and get more wrist snaps for heavy serves. This is a preferred method that other professional athletes use as well, including Nadal, who has chosen to downsize his grip, just like Federer.

Obviously, this is something that one should decide based on their skill levels and needs on the court, but it is always wise to measure your grip size before picking up a racket. 

Roger Federer also uses Wilson Pro overgrips to enhance grip size when needed for some extra stability. 

Roger Federer Racket History

Wild success is not the only thing constant in Roger’s Federer career; his loyalty to the Wilson brand since his junior days, up until his retirement in 2022, is quite admirable. The court legend has a clear favorite, even though he did switch up quite a lot of frame models throughout the years. 

1998: Pro Staff Original 6.0 85 

Federer’s debut racket as a professional was tiny by nowadays standards. The frame featured an 85 sq. inch head and was notorious for delivering unmatched control and precision. This was the same racket Pete Sampras had when Federer met him at the 2001 Wimbledon finals and achieved a stunning victory and sealed his status as a new tennis star. Pro Staff Original 6.0 was Roger’s weapon of choice for ten grand slam tournaments in a row between 1998 and 2002. 

2002: Hyper Pro Staff 6.0 Silver W

For the entire 2002 season, Roger Federer decided to use Hyper Pro Staff 6.1 Silver W. This model has a 95 sq. inch head, is much easier to maneuver in the court, and delivers some extra power and comfort. However, this was most likely a simple marketing move because Federer didn’t make a huge switch from an 85 sq inch head to a 95 sq. inch. He used a paint job over the racket but continued using the same previous model. 

2002: Hyper Pro Staff 6.1 Silver W 

Roger Federer made the first big switch in the second part of the 2002 season when he started using Hyper Pro Staff 6.1 Silver W racket. The frame’s head size was 90 sq. inch, which is still small, but enough to impact performance and the features displayed. Federer used the Pro Staff 6.1 racket only for the 2002 Australian grand slam tournament, before switching up again. 

2003: Pro Staff Tour 90

2003 was quite a successful season for Federer, who won the Wimbledon. His new weapon of choice was the Pro Staff Tour 90 racket, a new updated model of the same Wilson line he had been using so far. 

2004: nSix-One Tour 90

Federer used nSix One Tour 90 between 2004 and 2006, one of the best times of his career. With this racket, Roger won seven grand slams and participated in 30 ATP championships, when he delivered amazing performances. This racket will go down in history as Federer’s weapon of choice during what was arguably the peak of his career. 

2008 – 2013: Wilson K Factor Six One Tour / Wilson Six One Tour BLX / Wilson BLX Pro Staff Six One 90

From 2008 to 2013, Federer switched up to a few different models of the One Tour line that were very similar in features and performance, apart from minor updates each had. During this time, Federer won his first ever French Open and Australian grand slam and rose the trophy in another Wimbledon final as well. This area of his career will be remembered for some of the most memorable matches with Rafael Nadal, his greatest rival in being the number one in tennis. 

2014: Pro Staff RF97 Autograph

In the 2014 season, Roger Federer made the biggest racket switch of his career. He started using the now iconic Pro Staff RF97 Autograph. This racket features a 97 square inch head, a big jump from the previous 90 sq. inch frame.

Up until his retirement in 2022, Federer used only the Pro Staff RF97 Autograph. He only switched to an updated version or new paint jobs of the same model, but the changes were minor. 

Using Federer’s Racket Effectively

We have yet to see a more graceful player performing at such high levels as Roger Federer. He makes strokes seem effortless and every move smooth; however, at his core, Federer is an offensive player. Even though Roger seems to be a very calculated player, he was not afraid to am for big hitters or come closer to the net for a serve and volley drill. 

Roger Federer’s racket delivers all the features an all-court player like him needs to enhance perfomance, control, stability, and precision to control the ball’s trajectory and hit challenging targets. Pro Staff RF97 has just a hint of controllable power that is enough to inject some energy at the ball when needed, but it never gets out of hand to the point that it can ruin a shot. Managing such a hefty racket is challenging, so the player must have the physical strength and skill set needed. 

If you are considering Pro Staff RF97 Autograph for yourself, it would be smart to study Federer’s game style first so that you can learn a thing or two from the legend himself. 

A racket can elevate your performance on the court by enhancing control and stability while delivering surgical precision. With that being said, it is important to work with your techniques, footwork, and physical strength, because this racket has very low-margin errors. You can always make some adjustments to change certain features; however, when going for Roger Federer’s racket, make sure you have put in the work first. 

Many fans make the mistake of buying the same model as their idol, even though they are yet beginners or recreational with no experience in the game, only for them to soon realize they have wasted a lot of money on a racket they don’t have the abilities to use, just yet. 

What Strings does Federer use?

Roger Federer uses a hybrid setup of strings combining Wilson Natural Guts for the mains and Luxilon Ali Power Rough 16 L for crosses. This mix of two very different kinds of materials provides a wide array of features, which normally would not be possible. 

The natural gut offers power, comfort, and supreme feeling, while the other string choice delivers heavy spin, control, and stability. The fact that Roger has used only these strings for most of his long career is not simply loyalty to the brand or him getting too comfortable but the best way to ensure consistency in the games. 

Taking your time to decide on what kind of tennis strings you need is important for every new player, as it affects the racket’s performance and playability, as well as your ability to connect with your frame. 

Roger Federer String Tension

Federer string tension for the mains is around 27 kg or 59.4 lbs, while for the crosses, he keeps it at 25.5 kg or 56.1 lbs. The slight tension change between two strings is a personal preference of the tennis star. While we can not be entirely sure why Federer likes it this way, an intended difference in hybrid strings tension rates is a smart choice to enhance a bigger and more powerful sweet spot for more forgiving off-center shots. 

Other Roger Federer Tennis Gear

The fans’ curiosity about Roger Federer doesn’t stop at his game style or the racket that he uses. All the contrary, many people are interested to know everything about his tennis gear. Here are some of Federer’s gear that will make you look effortlessly cool like the Swiss champion next time you hit the court.

Wilson RD DNA 2020 12-Pack Tennis Bag

Wilson RD DNA 2020 12-Pack tennis bag is crafted from premium materials and designed with timeless style. It is highly practical, providing space to pack up to 12 tennis rackets. It has two main compartments and a lot of storage space where players can easily access all their belongings. The bag Thermoguard technology protects the gears from extreme heat damage. For all the true fans out there, the bag has Federere’s signature printed as well. 

The Roger Pro Tennis Shoes Collection

Roger Federer has collaborated with On Company for his own shoe collection for both men and women. The models are made based on human foot autonomy for ultimate comfort and to enhance athletic performance. These shoes are lightweight and stable, offer a ton of support, and come in different styles with bold colors. The best part is that Federer’s shoes are versatile and can be worn on-and-off the court. 

Wilson Pro Overgrip Pack 

Thin, stretchy, and super functional. Wilson Pro Overgrip feels very soft and reliable when used on the racket. It is just what you need when you need to adjust grip size. Players who need a better grip can also use it. The perforation around the grip keeps your hands dry and allows you to have a firm hold on the racket. Federer’s signature is printed on each grip, making them perfect for those who love collecting his gear.

Uniqlo Tennis Headband and Wristbands

Federer has been a brand ambassador for Uniqlo since 2018 and has lunch his own collection, so it’s no surprise that he uses their tennis headband and wristbands on court. Made from DRY-EX material, these accessories are designed to absorb sweat quickly and keep you cool and dry throughout the game. The headband and wristbands also feature a subtle Uniqlo logo and Federer’s signature, adding a touch of style to your tennis outfit.

Alternative Rackets to Roger Federer’s Racket

If Pro Staff RF97 Autograph is not your cup of tea, for whatever reason, but you still want a racket with similar features and performance as Federer, you can always look up alternative options. Here are some of our top picks; 

Babolat Pure Strike Tour 

Babolat Pure Strike Tour is made for advanced and competitive players that prioritize control, stability and plow through. At 12 ounces, it weighs slightly less than Pro Staff RF97 but paired with the elliptical beam, it is easier to manage and maneuver in court. The frame features a 98 sq”, an inch more than Roger Federer’s racket, and can generate heavy spin and speed. 

Regardless of the open string pattern, the Pure Strike racket is low-powered and doesn’t get pushed around, which suits perfectly aggressive baseliners. It feels solid at the net, allowing the player to redirect the ball even when hitting difficult angles. The new technology updates of the brand had paid off with the racket’s incredible all-court performance and supreme touch. 

Specs 

• Head size: 98 sq” / 632 cm²
• Length: 27 inches / 68.58 cm
• Weight (strung): 12 oz / 340 g
• String pattern: 16 mains / 19 crosses 

Yonex VCore 97 

Yonex Vcore 97 is the closest to Federer’s racket in terms of performance and specifications. It features a 97 sq. inch head with open string patterns that can generate incredible spin and speed. The frame provides great control and is very stable throughout the game. Yonex Vcore weighs 11.5 ounces or 326, which is less than Pro Staff RF97 and is easier to manage. 

The technological enhancements and the isometric shape make the Yonex tennis racket more forgiving for off-center shots and can even absorb harsh vibrations. This frame is an optimal choice for all the high intermediate and advanced players looking for a more arm-friendly version of Federer’s racket without sacrificing spin, speed, or feel. 

Specs 

• Head size: 97 sq² / 626 cm²
• Length: 27 inches / 68.58 cm
• Weight (strung): 11.5 oz / 326 g
• String pattern: 16 mains / 19 crosses 

Head Graphene 360+ Prestige Pro

Head Graphene 360 Prestige Pro is one of the few frames in the market that can replace Pro Staff RF97 and still deliver similar performance and results. This frame features a 98 sq. inch size with dense string patterns that are made for control, spin, and speed. It weighs almost 12 ounces, close to Federer’s racket, and can deliver a good blend of stability and precision. 

One of the best things Prestige Tour has to offer is the plush feeling and the ability to bend in impact, making the game with this racket a true tennis experience. It’s best suited for advanced players who have the physical and technical skills to use it. 

Specs 

• Head size: 98 sq” / 632 cm²
• Length: 27 inches / 68.58 cm
• Weight (strung): 11.9 oz / 337 g
• String pattern: 18 mains / 20 crosses 

Conclusion 

We all can agree that Roger Federer would have been successful and famous regardless of the racket model or brand due to his unique talent in tennis. However, even for a player as such, the racket he uses has played an important role in his overall performances and wins. 

Wilson Pro Staff RF97 Autograph is iconic precisely because Federer used it to win many of his grand slams and set unprecedented records in the game. This frame is made for a champion; it delivers the perfect mix of control, stability, plow-through, and precision. It also requires technical skills and physical strength to manage it.

In whatever skill level you are, follow Federer’s example, and try different rackets until you find the perfect match. Remember, it’s not about the brand or the model; it’s about how well you can connect with your racket and how it can serve you in court. The racket doesn’t make a champion, but it sure can help.