Wilson adds another chapter to the legendary Pro Staff RF 97 Autograph – a racket specially engineered for Roger Federer, the man who helped design it. Although it has the same target specs and outstanding playability as the original RF 97, Wilson and Federer have created an update for the ages.

From its sleek black matte finish to the small silhouette of Federer and laser engraved graphics, the RF 97 is Wilson’s most scrupulously detailed frame. Even the racket’s texture has been redesigned to match Federer’s preference – a nuance that makes for easier adjustments as the racket is spun and repositioned in response to incoming heat. Like its predecessor, this update deploys Wilson’s timeless Pro Staff formula, including a braided graphite layup, headlight balance, thin beam and Perimeter Weighting System. Toss in a thin leather grip and the result is a truly classic feel. Unlike the iconic 6.0 85, this re-engineered Pro Staff has a slightly wider, more angular beam, giving it a decidedly more powerful delivery than most traditional player’s rackets. 

At 360g strung, Federer’s Pro Staff has massive plow-through and tour level stability, giving it the ability to redirect heavy pace with impressive ease. Our playtest team noted a high level of precision on full cuts, with some genuine put-away power when the mass was fully deployed. Thanks to its headlight balance (9 points!), the RF 97 feels surprisingly fast for its 340 plus grams – a feature that will give topspin players the kind of whippy and explosive acceleration that makes for big spin.

On volleys, the RF 97 is not only unfazed by heavy pace, but it possesses enough feel to drop the ball on a dime. As one of the of the most finely crafted player’s rackets Wilson has built, this heavily anticipated follow- up to the original RF 97 is destined to become an instant classic.

This racket is also compatible with the Sony Smart Tennis Sensor.

Tech Specs