Watching Wimbledon, it's tempting to think the racquet the pros use is the racquet you should buy. It isn't. The frames on Centre Court are tuned for players who train for hours every day – for the rest of us, the right racquet is the one that matches your game. Here's how to choose, whether you're picking up your first racquet during the 2026 Championships or upgrading from a beginner frame.
Head size: power vs control
The hitting area matters more than almost anything. A larger head (around 100–110 sq in) gives you a bigger sweet spot and more forgiveness – ideal for beginners and improvers. A smaller head (around 95–98 sq in) offers more control and precision, which suits advanced players who supply their own power.
Weight and balance
Lighter racquets (around 250–285g) are easier to swing and manoeuvre, making them friendlier for beginners, juniors and anyone wanting less strain on the arm. Heavier frames (300g and up) deliver more stability and power but demand better technique. If you're unsure, err lighter – you can always add weight, but you can't take it out of your swing.
Strung or unstrung?
Some racquets are sold pre-strung and ready to play, others come unstrung so you can choose your own string and tension. Beginners should look for a fully strung racquet so you can play straight away. As you progress, custom stringing lets you fine-tune feel and spin. Browse the tennis range to compare frames across junior, intermediate and advanced levels.
Match the racquet to the player
Buying for a child? Junior racquets are sized by length – a rough guide is a 19" or 21" frame for younger kids, moving up as they grow. Getting the size right makes a huge difference to how quickly they learn and how much they enjoy it. Adults returning to the game should prioritise a forgiving, lightweight frame over anything flashy.
The small extras that matter
Whatever frame you land on, two cheap additions make a real difference. A fresh overgrip transforms the feel of any racquet and improves your hold in the heat, and a grommet and bumper guard protects your investment from everyday wear.
Find your frame
The best racquet is the one that feels right in your hand and matches your level – not the one on TV. Explore the full tennis collection to find yours while Wimbledon inspiration is at its peak.