GAMMA RZR 98 Tennis Racquet Review
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Groundstrokes
From the baseline, the RZR 98 was excellent on slices, especially defensive “squash shots.” However, the lack of mass in the head of the frame is noticeable when returning heavy shots. Even when striking the ball with the sweetspot, the ball seemed to push the racquet around. When trying to loop a topspin shot with a loose swing, the frame produced a fair amount of spin, but depth seemed inconsistent. Ultimately, a defensive style of play would best suit the 98. Otherwise, offensive players will be more successful against a slower ball.
Volleys
I found decent power on volleys, but the frame lacks the feel most accomplished net players prefer. I was able to maneuver the frame easily, and put the ball away with angles, pace, and drop volleys. The frame requires a firm wrist when facing an aggressive drive, but it’s lightness allowed for superior racquet head control when placing my volleys. Power volleyers should not have any trouble will this frame.
Serves
The RZR 98 allowed for terrific acceleration of the racquet head on serves. Flat serves hit their mark without sacrificing pace. Slice serves slid away from the returner. However, kick serves didn’t kick up as high as I would have liked. To combat this issue, I found myself hitting second serves with more sidespin and pace.
Overall
This racquet is best suited for strong beginners and intermediate players. It will also work well as a platform for customization, and more serious players will want to tinker with additional mass in either the handle, hoop, or both. Aggressive singles players will like the access to power and spin. Doubles players will like the power on serve and at the net. Players that prefer a softer feel in a racquet should look elsewhere, but 3.0 level players and up will have no problem wielding this frame.
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