Review: Wilson Blade v7 – Updated for 2022

Wilson Blade is a very popular racquet on the ATP tour. Top players such as Stefanos Tsitsipas, Karen Khachanov, and Milos Raonic use the Wilson Blade.

This is the seventh iteration of this racquet.  This version replaces the Countervail technology with the new FeelFlex technology.  FeelFlex uses Wilson’s proprietary carbon mapping to add torsional stability. The racquet also bends in the path of the swing, allowing players to add spin and power.

Another change Wilson has made to this iteration of Blade is the longer grip taper to the handle.  This will come in handy for players with a two-handed backhand.

The racquet comes in the 16×19 “open string pattern” and the 18×20 “closed string pattern”. The 16×19 open string pattern has widened the spacing between the main and cross strings and gives more power and spin but less control.  The 18×20 closed string pattern has smaller spacing between the main and cross strings, and generates less power and less spin but offers more control.

Wilson Blade racquet is arm-friendly and will keep you away from arm and elbow pain even after long hours of play.

Ground Strokes

The Wilson Blade has a much better feel compared to the Countervail. The racquet weighs 305g and is impressive on the groundstrokes. The racquet has good head speed and allows you to take a big swing at the ball without losing control.

At the Net

At the net, the racquet has a good feel and absorbs impact nicely. The racquet has good control and allows you to place the ball in court accurately.

Serves

The racquet’s head speed allows you to hit well targeted flat serves.  The racquet provides enough control that even your big serves will land inside the court.

Overall, this racquet continues the Blade tradition of optimal power and control for intermediate and advanced players.

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Nishikori Splits With Long Time Coach Bottini

Kei Nishikori announced Tuesday that he has split with his long time coach Dante Bottini.  The pair have worked together since 2011.

Bottini guided Nishikori to 11 of his 12 ATP titles and an Olympic bronze medal in 2016.  Nishikori reached a career high ranking of No. 4 during his partnership with Bottini. Nishikori was also coached by Michael Chang at majors.

“After nine years of working together literally day in and day out, I have decided it is time for a new voice,” wrote Nishikori, who is currently sidelined with a right-elbow injury.

“I am forever grateful for Dante’s contributions to my career and we will obviously remain very close friends. I appreciate so much the last 9 years and our friendship.”

Continue ReadingNishikori Splits With Long Time Coach Bottini