The Top Tennis Rackets for Intermediate Players

After playing casually with friends on the court tennis players understand the best tennis racket does make a difference.

Written by Travis Miller June 12, 2024 2:17 p.m. ET

(photo/Stan Bennett)
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Choosing the right tennis racquet is a pivotal decision for intermediate players looking to elevate their game on the court. Let’s find out the top recommended tennis racquets made for intermediate players with each racquet's features, pros, cons, and how they can enhance your game.

The Leading Rackets for 3.0 to 3.5 NTRP levels


Babolat Pure Drive Racket

Specs

  • Fabric: 85% Polyester, 10% EVA, 5% TPE
  • Color: White / Black / Orange
  • Dimensions: ‎31" x 14" x 13" / 32 x 32 x 75cm
    Pros
  • Cortex Pure Feel technology provides a comfortable and responsive feel
  • Woofer Grommet System increases string movement for enhanced power and spin
  • FSI Power technology maximizes power and forgiveness on off-center hits
  • Cons
  • May feel too powerful if you prefer to hit with more control and finesse
  • Reay reuirw a period of adjustment for players transitioning

The Babolat Pure Drive is a game-changer for players like me who crave both style and functionality in their gear. With two roomy compartments designed to hold up to 6 racquets, this bag ensures I never have to leave any of my favorite sticks behind. Plus, the fully insulated compartments provide much-needed protection for my racquets keeping them safe from extreme temperatures that could affect string tension during those long days on the court.

Overall, the Babolat Pure Drive is a fantastic choice for players seeking a balance of style and functionality. Its spacious design, insulated compartments, and durable construction make it a reliable companion for any tennis enthusiast, whether hitting the courts for a casual match or competing in a win or go home tournament.

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Babolat Pure Strike Racket

Specs

  • Color: Black / Yellow
  • Dimensions: L30" x W16.5" x H14"
    Pros
  • Exceptional control and feel on every shot
  • Enhanced stability and precision for pinpoint accuracy
  • Advanced Hybrid Frame Construction for optimal power and responsiveness
  • FSI Power technology increases power without compromising control
  • Cons
  • Requires a level of skill and technique to fully exploit its capabilities
  • Can feel slightly unforgiving on mishits for less experienced players

When it comes to dominating the court with power and precision, the Babolat Pure Strike is a force to be reckoned with. Crafted for the modern player seeking control and feel without sacrificing power, this racket boasts an impressive blend of technology and design.

Players using this bag: (ATP) Dominic Thiem

Buy from these retailers:
    Tennis Warehouse Tennis Express

 


Babolat Pure Aero Rackets

Specs

  • Fabric: Durable 60% Polyester, 40% Polyurethane
  • Color: Black/Orange
  • Dimensions:30 x 13 x 4in
    Pros
  • Aerodynamic frame design enhances racket head speed
  • FSI Spin technology increases spin potential
  • Cortex Pure Feel technology provides a comfortable and responsive feel/li> Cons
  • May feel too powerful for players with a finesse style of play
  •  

For those who want to unleash a whirlwind of spin and power on the court, the Babolat Pure Aero is the weapon of choice. Engineered for players who love to dictate play with their aggressive baseline game, this racket offers unmatched spin potential and explosive shot-making capabilities. This racquet is trusted by top pros like Rafael Nadal, proving its effectiveness at the highest levels of the game.

    Tennis Warehouse Tennis Express

 


Yonex VCore 100

Specs

  • Fabric: Twill PU
  • Color: Black/Yellow
  • Dimensions:Length: 13 in. x Height: 19 in. x Width: 11 in
  • Weight:1.1 pounds
    Pros
  • Modern design with sleek aesthetics
  • Spin-friendly string pattern
  • Comfortable feel on impact
  • Cons
  • May lack the precision and control of traditional rackets
  • Requires some adjustment when transitioning from heavier rackets

The Yonex VCORE 100 offers a modern design with a focus on spin and control for intermediate players.

  Tennis Warehouse  

 


Head Racquets

Head Speed MP

Specs

  • Color: Green/Black, Red/White
  • Dimensions: L30" x W16.5" x H14"
    Pros
  • Lightweight design allows for lightning-fast swings
  • Graphene 360+ technology enhances stability and power
  • Dynamic 16x19 string pattern offers a perfect blend of spin and control
  • Excellent choice for intermediate to advanced players looking to take their game to the next level
  • Cons
  • May lack the heft and power
  •  

If you're a player who thrives on speed and agility, the Head Speed MP is your ticket to success on the court. Designed for the versatile player who demands a racket that can keep up with their dynamic style of play, this racket delivers exceptional performance from all areas of the court.

Buy from these retailers:
    Tennis Warehouse Tennis Express

 


Prince ATS Textreme Tour 100 290 Racquet

Specs

  • Fabric: 100% Polyester
  • Color: Cobalt Blue, Red, Black
  • Dimensions: 30.1 x 11.8 x 13.3 inches
    Pros
  • Textreme material construction enhances stability and feel
  • Double Bridge technology reduces vibration
  • O3 technology enlarges the sweet spot for increased power
  • Cons
  • May feel slightly underpowered for players who prefer aggressive play
  • May need time to adjust

The Prince ATS Textreme Tour 100 290 delivers a blend of power, control, and feel in an easy-to-use package, making it ideal for intermediate players seeking all-around playability on the court

Buy from these retailers:
  Tennis Warehouse   Tennis Warehouse  

 


Wilson Pro Staff 97

Specs

  • Fabric: Durable Polyester
  • Color: Blue, Black
  • Dimensions: 15 x 9 x 22 inches
  • Weight: 1.1 pounds
    Pros
  • Offers unparalleled control and touch
  • Braided Graphite construction enhances stability and feel
  • Spin Effect Technology increases spin potential for sharper angles
  • Cons
  • May feel less forgiving on off-center hits
  •  

The Wilson Pro Staff 97 is a great option for players who prefer backpack-style bags. It has a spacious main compartment and can hold up to 2 rackets. With its spacious main compartment, this backpack provides ample storage space for all your essentials, from your workout clothes and sneakers to your books and laptop.

Used by tennis greats like Roger Federer, solidifying its status as a timeless classic. Perfect for players who prioritize precision and finesse over raw power.

  Tennis Warehouse  

 


Head Gravity

Head Gravity Pro

Specs

  • Fabric: 40% PU / 60% Polyester
  • Color: Red
  • Dimensions:‎30.9 x 14 x 7.6 inches
    Pros
  • Graphene 360+ technology provides enhanced stability and power shot-making
  • Smart Bridge construction dampens vibrations for a comfortable and controlled feel
  • Compact 18/20 string pattern offers exceptional control and precision
  • Cons
  • May feel a bit demanding if you prefer a more forgiving racket
  •  

For the player who seeks a unique blend of power and control the Head Gravity Pro stands out as a formidable choice. Crafted with cutting-edge technology and a distinctive design, this racket offers a playing experience like no other. Whether you're unleashing thunderous groundstrokes or deftly placing volleys at the net, the Gravity Pro is your ticket to tennis excellence. Players using this racket: (ATP) Alexander Zverev

 

 


Wilson Blade 98

Specs

  • Fabric: Box weave fabric
  • Color: Black / Green
  • Dimensions:‎ L30" x W9" x H14"
    Pros
  • Countervail technology reduces vibration and fatigue
  • Parallel Drilling increases string movement for enhanced power and feel
  • Spin Effect technology maximizes spin potential
  • Cons
  • Lack of color variety
  •  

In the hands of a skilled player the Wilson Blade 98 is a lethal weapon on the tennis court. Known for its exceptional blend of power, control, and feel, this racket has earned a reputation as a favorite among serious competitors. Whether you're unleashing blistering serves or crafting delicate touch shots, the Blade 98 delivers unmatched performance with every swing.

Former pro and regarded as the greatest female player, Serena Williams relied on this racket to make history on the WTA Tour.

  Tennis Warehouse   Tennis Warehouse  

 


Wilson Clash 100

Specs

  • Fabric: 55% Polyester / 45% PU
  • Color: Black / Orange
  • Dimensions: L32" x W10" x H13"
    Pros
  • FreeFlex technology provides unrivaled flexibility
  • StableSmart frame geometry enhances stability and control
  • Parallel Drilling increases string movement for enhanced comfort
  • Cons
  • May feel slightly less powerful than other rackets in this class
  • May require an adjustment period if switching from a traditional racket

Step onto the court with the Wilson Clash 100, and you're entering a new era of tennis technology. This racket defies convention with its revolutionary design, offering a unique blend of power, control, and flexibility. If you're looking to revolutionize your game and experience tennis like never before, the Clash 100 is your weapon of choice.

Top pros like Stefanos Tsitsipas uses this racket.

  Tennis Warehouse   Tennis Warehouse  

 


Yonex VCore 98

Specs

  • Fabric: 55% Polyester / 45% PU
  • Color: Blue
  • Dimensions: 35% recycled polyester, 50% virgin polyester, 15% PE
    Pros
  • Isometric frame shape enlarges the sweet spot for increased power & off hits
  • Aero Fin technology reduces air resistance for faster racket head speed and increased spin
  • Namd graphite material enhances stability and power
  • Cons
  • May feel slightly demanding for players who prefer a more forgiving racket
  • May require a period of adjustment for players transitioning from other racket brands
  •  

Step onto the court with the Yonex VCore 98, and you're wielding a racket that's trusted by top players worldwide. Known for its blend of power, control, and spin, this racket is a favorite among players who demand precision and versatility. Whether you're unleashing booming serves or crafting delicate touch shots, the VCore 98 delivers performance that's second to none.

  Tennis Warehouse   Tennis Warehouse  

 


Prince Phantom Tennis Racquet

Specs

  • Fabric: 100% Polyester
  • Color: Cobalt Blue, Red, Black
  • Dimensions: 30.1 x 11.8 x 13.3 inches
    Pros
  • Textreme material construction enhances stability and feel
  • Double Bridge technology reduces vibration
  • O3 technology enlarges the sweet spot for increased power
  • Cons
  • May feel slightly underpowered for players who prefer aggressive play
  • May need time to adjust

Walk on the court with the Prince Phantom 100X, and you're wielding a racket that's as sleek and stealthy as its name suggests. Designed for players who demand precision and control, this racket offers a playing experience that's both responsive and comfortable. Whether you're unleashing powerful groundstrokes or executing delicate drop shots, the Phantom 100X has you covered.

Buy from these retailers:
  Tennis Warehouse   Tennis Warehouse  

 


Technifibre TFX1 300

Specs

  • Fabric: 55% Polyester / 45% PU
  • Color: Black / Orange
  • Dimensions: L32" x W10" x H13"
    Pros
  • Dynacore HD technology boosts stability and power
  • Xtreme Touch Construction provides a comfortable feel
  • Spin Blade technology increases spin potential for greater control
  • Cons
  • May feel slightly heavy
  •  

the Technifibre TFX1-300, a racket designed for players who crave power and precision. Engineered with cutting-edge technology and a focus on performance, this racket delivers exceptional results on the court. Whether you're unleashing blistering serves or dictating play from the baseline, the TFX1-300 is your ultimate weapon.

Players using this bag: (ATP) Novak Djokovic, Alexander Zverev.

Buy from these retailers:
  Tennis Warehouse   Tennis Warehouse