Wilson Blade 98 v9.0 18x20 2024
Comfort-flex profile: this frame should absorb vibration better and extend ball contact time. The added flex improves dwell-time feel and can be friendlier on the arm.
This racket weighs 305g unstrung, with a 98in² head, a 18x20 string pattern and 62 RA stiffness. Suited for advanced players who already generate their own pace and prioritize precision and direct feedback from the frame. Pairs well with a flatter, more direct game style, leaning on the denser string pattern for predictability.
- Higher mass and swingweight help drive through heavy pace.
- A denser string pattern and/or compact head favor control and directional precision.
- The more flexible frame absorbs impact better, adding arm comfort.
- The higher weight/swingweight ask for earlier preparation and some physical conditioning.
- Smaller margin for error on off-center hits — rewards clean contact.
In context: At 62 RA, this model sits below the database average (67 RA) — a more flexible frame response.
In our database, these models have a closely matching spec profile:
Specs and analysis generated algorithmically by the Racket Compare Data Lab, based on data from manufacturers and industry reference sources.
Glossary of Terms
The hitting surface area of the racket, measured in square inches (in²) or cm². Larger heads (100+ in²) offer more contact area, generating power and a larger sweet spot — ideal for developing players. Smaller heads (95 in² or below) provide more precision and control, preferred by advanced players.
Unstrung frame weight in grams (g). Heavier rackets (300g+) provide more stability and plow-through at contact. Lighter rackets are more maneuverable and less fatiguing, but require more physical effort from the player to generate pace.
Indicates where the racket's center of gravity is located. Head Light (HL): weight concentrated in the handle, providing greater maneuverability and swing speed. Head Heavy (HH): weight in the head, generating more passive power. Even (EV): exact balance at the midpoint of the frame.
The RA index measures frame flex. High RA (65+) = stiff frame, transfers more energy to the ball, more power. Low RA (below 60) = flexible frame, absorbs more shock, more comfort and feel. Directly affects ball feel and arm comfort at impact.
Number of main (vertical) × cross (horizontal) strings. Open patterns (e.g., 16×19) create more string movement, generating more spin and power. Closed patterns (e.g., 18×20) offer more control, predictability, and longer string life — ideal for players seeking consistency.
Measures the racket's resistance to the swing motion, regardless of static weight. Two frames with the same weight can have different swingweights depending on mass distribution. High swingweight (330+) = more stability and power at impact, but requires more effort to accelerate.
The thickness of the racket frame in millimeters. Wide beams (23mm+) are stiffer and more powerful, as the larger cross-section reduces frame deflection on impact. Thin beams (below 20mm) are more flexible and offer more feel — typical of advanced player frames that prioritize control.