Lorenzo Sonego is an Italian tennis player who has been making waves in the tennis world. Fans and analysts alike have been curious about his racquet setup, particularly his Wilson Blade 98 Pro Stock racquet. Sonego has been using this racquet for the majority of his career, and it has become a key part of his playing style.
While Sonego endorses the Wilson Blade v8 CV 18×20, it is believed that he actually uses an older Wilson Blade frame that has been painted to look like the Blade v8. The racquet is relatively light, weighing in at 11.57oz/328g strung with an overgrip. Sonego strings his racquet with Wilson Natural Gut in the mains and Luxilon Alu Power Rough in the crosses.
For fans of Sonego and tennis enthusiasts alike, understanding the details of his racquet setup can provide valuable insights into his playing style and strategies.
In this article, we will take a closer look at Lorenzo Sonego’s Wilson Blade 98 Pro Stock racquet, including its specifications, features, and how it contributes to his success on the court.
Lorenzo Sonego’s Tennis Racquet: Design and Specifications
Lorenzo Sonego, the Italian tennis player, uses a Wilson Blade 98 Pro Stock racquet. This racquet has been painted to resemble the Wilson Blade 98 Countervail, but it is a pro stock version that is not available to the general public. Here are the specifications of his racquet:
Racquet Head
The head size of Lorenzo Sonego’s racquet is 98 square inches. This is a relatively small head size, which allows for more control and precision on shots.
String Pattern
The string pattern of Sonego’s racquet is 18×20. This means that there are 18 main strings and 20 cross strings. A tighter string pattern like this provides more control, but less power and spin.
Grip Size
Sonego’s racquet has a grip size of 4 3/8 inches. This is a medium grip size that is suitable for most players. A grip that is too small can cause the racquet to twist in the hand, while a grip that is too large can cause discomfort and reduce control.
In addition to these specifications, Sonego’s racquet weighs 11.57 ounces (328 grams) when strung with an overgrip. He strings his racquet with Luxilon Alu Power Rough, which is a popular string among professional players. This string provides good control and durability.
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How Lorenzo Sonego’s Tennis Racquet Affects His Game
Power and Control
Lorenzo Sonego’s Wilson Blade 98 Pro Stock racquet is known for its power and control. The racquet has a head size of 98 square inches and a weight of 305 grams, which allows Sonego to generate a lot of power on his shots.
The racquet also has a dense string pattern of 18×20, which provides excellent control on his groundstrokes and volleys. Sonego’s powerful forehand is one of his biggest weapons, and his racquet allows him to hit the ball with a lot of pace and accuracy.
Spin
Sonego’s racquet also allows him to generate a lot of spin on his shots. The Wilson Blade 98 Pro Stock racquet has an open string pattern, which makes it easier to generate topspin on the ball. This is especially useful on clay courts, where the ball tends to bounce higher. Sonego’s ability to generate spin on his shots allows him to hit the ball with more margin for error, making it harder for his opponents to return his shots.
Serve and Return
Sonego’s racquet also plays a crucial role in his serve and return game. The racquet’s weight and balance allow Sonego to generate a lot of power on his serve, while its string pattern provides excellent control. This allows Sonego to hit his spots with precision, making it harder for his opponents to return his serve. On the return, Sonego’s racquet allows him to block back fast serves with ease, while also providing enough power and control to hit aggressive returns.
It’s safe to say that, Lorenzo Sonego’s Wilson Blade 98 Pro Stock racquet is a perfect fit for his game style. The racquet’s combination of power, control, and spin allows Sonego to hit his shots with precision and generate a lot of pace and spin. This gives him a significant advantage over his opponents and makes him a dangerous player on any surface.
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Lorenzo Sonego’s Racquet: Maintenance and Care
String Tension and Replacement
Lorenzo Sonego uses Luxilon Alu Power Soft 16L/1.25 strings in his Wilson Blade 98 Pro Stock racquet. He strings his racquet with a full bed of these strings at 51lbs / 23kgs in tension. It is recommended to restring a racquet every 30-40 hours of play or every 3-4 months, whichever comes first. Sonego’s string tension is on the lower side, which can provide more power and spin, but less control. It is important to find the right tension for your playing style and preferences.
When replacing strings, it is recommended to use the same type and tension as before, unless you want to make a change. It is also important to check for any signs of wear and tear on the strings, such as fraying or notching, and replace them if necessary to avoid any potential injury.
Grip Replacement
The grip on a tennis racquet can wear down over time from sweat, dirt, and general use. It is recommended to replace the grip every 6-8 months or sooner if it becomes slippery or uncomfortable. Sonego uses a Wilson Pro Overgrip on his racquet, which is a popular choice among players for its tacky feel and durability.
When replacing the grip, it is important to clean the handle of the racquet first to ensure a secure and long-lasting grip. This can be done with a damp cloth and mild soap. It is also important to choose the right size grip for your hand, as a too-small or too-large grip can affect your grip and swing.
Storage and Transportation
Proper storage and transportation of a tennis racquet can help prolong its lifespan and performance. It is recommended to store the racquet in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. It is also important to avoid leaving the racquet in a hot car or exposed to moisture, as this can damage the strings and frame.
When transporting the racquet, it is recommended to use a protective case or bag to prevent any scratches or damage. Sonego uses a Wilson Blade Duffle Bag to carry his racquets and gear.